Be Yourself, Loudly
Start writing a post
Student Life

Be Yourself, Loudly

Standing up for what you believe in is hard; this is a simple truth. It's the oldest story in the book, and there's a reason why we keep retelling it.

55
Be Yourself, Loudly
Pexels

Today I write on a mission with a pen that can't keep up. Thoughts firing away like cannons, demanding each black inked letter they deserve. These are the ones I've been able to get down so far...

Like anyone with a fast beating heart and a story brewing, I have been torn down for trying to tell mine. We each have a voice, a platform, and a passion, and with expression comes both valiant support and raging disagreement. As human beings we are unique and purposeful, and when we diverge, the clash may engulf the entire point and cloud the passion that started it off. What I'm trying to say is that disagreement and debate are not only common, but they are okay.

As each differing opinion gets released into the world, and opposing sides prepare for mobile warfare, I must remind myself that bravery and activism don't always pair well with likeability and overall popularity; but to those telling the stories, being charming is rarely the first priority. As we grow and opinions of the world form to our individual molds, the disagreement will come naturally, but the mutually respect sometimes gets lost in translation. Demeaning one another and tearing down someone's character is never the correct answer to differing views, so don't be so quick to degrade something just because it scares you. It is easy to villainize your opponent, because it is simpler to hate something just for being different than it is to understand it. This part is key, because that's the moment where, if you let it, hatred washes over the shore and destroys the harmonious world we have built. That is the moment where compassion and goodwill have truly lost.

If you, like me, have been devoured and mislabeled by spiteful words, have no fear. Those who are quickest to judge are always the ones with the most to learn; ones who ironically, know nothing about you. Don't be afraid to be yourself, and don't let harsh words discourage you from telling the story you were made to tell. Let your words lead the way. And when those words get big enough to start a roar, well, that just means it's working. If your opposing side is angry and hateful, you're on the right track, so don't stop now. Don't let them win. Let your voice be loud and smooth and crisp, and when they throw bitter disrespect at you, clear your throat and keep going. For there is only friction when there is fear, fear that maybe your voice is too powerful for them to quiet down, fear that others may start listening, too.

To some, I am their liberal target practice, and to those I have nothing to prove. I have no rebuttal or objection, for it is your opinion, even when it is false. But I do have a lot more to say. So if you want more, keep on reading, because the end of this sentence is not the end for me. I will not be bullied and afraid. I will not be enclosed and encapsulated. I will not be apologetic or unoriginal. I will not be silenced. Not today, or any day.

I will rise up, above animosity and intimidation, and I will be my true and authentic self. I hope most others have grown mature enough to respect that. For those who haven't, troll on, my tired pen awaits.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

45923
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

29078
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

953489
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

160303
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments