For much of the past 30 years, I have had no real voice. I stay in my lane. I stay to myself. I don't speak up. I don't speak unless spoken to. I basically find myself in situations where anxiety takes over and I'm unable to voice my thoughts, feelings, opinions...

That changed this year. I figured out that I have thoughts and opinions that matter to other people. There's a whole world out there that needs my voice.

Two years ago, I went to a doctor and they diagnosed me with a condition where my stomach acid is basically eroding my vocal cords. I of course never went back after that because who wants to hear that they will end up unable to speak? I was put on medication and basically it's a hit or miss as to if that is helping me. -My own fault of course since I failed to follow up.

It is about time for me to reevaluate that.

It's become clear that I cannot yell. I cannot raise my voice without it cracking and dying out. It's a shocking sensation to understand my own limitations. While finding my voice, I may have lost mine. I hope one day to prove that doctor wrong but here we are.

It's clear that change is scary. We however have to grow past that.

Remember that you have a voice and you can use it for the better good.

You matter. Your thoughts, feelings, and actions make a difference in the world.

Keep going. Be the change we need.