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Unspoken Words



I’ve never been a particularly quiet person but I remember being very fearful to share my opinion or an idea within a group of people. I recall scenarios in classes where everyone would be required to give an answer or share an observation regarding a particular subject or recent event. I can still feel the pressure mounting as I awaited my turn, sitting there in terror, wishing I could turn myself invisible or avoid the moment altogether with an aptly timed building fire or maybe a seizure. And yes, my hopeful escapes were that extreme.

I don’t think it was really the speaking in front of a group that bothered me so much. I know part of the issue was being afraid of the opinions of others, especially my peers. But I think the biggest obstacle was the potential to be WRONG in front of everyone, with my error in full view of my classmates and no ability to take it back. That’s what terrified me.

I know there are many times in life where I could have helped someone discover an answer or at least find the right question to ask. Instances where I could have encouraged someone and given them the boost they needed to move forward. I am sure I have been in scenarios in which I could have contributed my thoughts and maybe changed someone’s day or possibly even life for the better. Too often though, I have let these moments slip by, choosing to say nothing rather than utter the wrong thing. I chose not to act rather than risk erring.

Now, I realize foolishness abound in a multitude of words but there are times when someone must take a stand say what no one else is willing to mention or ask the questions others are wondering but won’t articulate. I think you all can relate but speaking for myself, I have passed by too many of those opportunities.

The intensity of regret, having that burning in my heart go unuttered, surpasses even the fear of being incorrect. Going forward, I have decided I would rather speak up and be wrong than pass through life in silence and anonymity.

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