Often as children we are either told to “speak when spoken to” or told to “speak up” (in some cases followed by “stop mumbling”). As adults, we are often told the same thing, though occasionally in a less polite fashion!

When it comes to your safety & security, I must insistently say SPEAK UP! Speak strongly, loudly, assertively and often. Speak the truth, always. Help others to speak when they feel too weak or afraid; let them know their voice is equally important and needs to be heard. Speak regardless of your differences – in spite of them – so that others may grow and learn.

There are, sadly, many injustices in this world; if we don’t speak out when we see them, who will? How will the problems be solved? We are the solution…one or many, someone has to be first.

A priest named Martin Niemöller (who spent over eight years in a Nazi concentration camp) wrote a succinct comment of how important this is.

They Came For Me

First they came for the Jews
and I did not speak out–because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for the Communists
and I did not speak out–because I was not a Communist.
Then they came for the Trade Unionists
and I did not speak out–because I was not a Trade Unionist.
Then they came for me…
and there was no one left to speak out for me.

Always remember, YOU are more powerful than you realize. Together, WE can empower each other and accomplish great things.