My parents instilled three things in me at a very young age: independence, personal responsibility, and being the best that I could be. I always knew I could be absolutely anything I wanted to be in this world, because I was lucky to live in America. I was raised in a conservative household, but before you start screaming, “You’re only a conservative because your parents are,” know that my parents never pushed their beliefs onto me. I had little to no passion for politics at all, like most young people these days, but that all changed when I turned 18.

I saw the way our country was changing. I saw the values I believed in most were becoming less and less prevalent in today’s society. I saw the bias apparent in my high school government class, and on my college campus pushing an agenda I didn’t agree with. I wanted to make a change and speak out, but what if my way of thinking was wrong? What if someone called me out and I couldn’t properly defend myself? What if everyone thought I was a freak? I was scared to have a voice.

I did what I thought was best to do. I informed myself. I did my research. I looked up the platforms of both the Democratic and Republican party. I found my values, beliefs and principles best aligned with that of the Republican platform such as pro-life, smaller government, personal responsibility, the Constitution, and free markets. It didn’t stop there. I followed news outlets on social media and tried my best to stay in-the-know about current events. The more I learned and informed myself, the more vocal I became. I found being informed is the best way to be equipped to defend your stances when they’re being questioned. There is nothing more empowering than knowing your stuff.

I started to get involved in a few organizations, and I soon found a great support system in those that helped me further gain confidence and knowledge. I even started writing for one of the organizations’ blog that promoted the beliefs and values I believe in. I was putting my opinions out there for millions to see.

Now you can find me on social media, never being scared to voice my opinions. I might receive some hate or lose a couple followers on Twitter, but I now know more than ever what I believe in and stand for with every fiber in my being. Whether it’s politics or not, this journey has broken me out of my shell and has taught me to speak out. It’s helped me find my voice. I hope you find yours too.