Find A Voice

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"Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning."
-Maya Angelou

Everyone needs that person in his or her life who nurtures their hopes and dreams. One student I spoke to recently told me that her mother is extremely negative and always telling her she isn’t good enough. In addition, her mother constantly compares her to her older sister whom her mother considered a failure. This young woman went on to explain that she doesn’t want to be like her mother, bringing everyone down and hurting people. As a result she chooses to be different in spite of the negativity she hears daily. Since her mother is not a positive sustaining voice, she strengthens herself by using her voice to find other voices. The worst thing you could do in a situation like this is to not tell anyone. Consequently, you end up crippling your voice. Do not give other people the power to silence you!

If you do not have one of those positive individuals speaking loudly enough actively seek other outlets. That voice can come in the form of authors, songwriters, coaches, or musicians, etc. You may be in a situation where you feel as if no one in your life understands.  If this is your situation, find an encouraging song that you love. I rely on the voice of a vocalist India Arie, whose song, “Strength, Courage and Wisdom,” is the theme to my life. When I hear those words from her voice, I know that I am able to move forward in pursuit of my dreams without fear.  While listening to the voices of positive people, your voice also gains strength as you internalize their messages.

Keep Giving,

Angela R. Lewis