The Power of My Voice

 

 

Right now I'm reading second-wave feminist texts in order to get a better understanding of myself and my potential. The two books I'm currently trying to read are "Femininity" by Susan Brownmiller and "The Girl Within" by Emily Hancock. They might be considered a bit dated since they were published in the 1980s, but I think parts of the texts probably still apply in today's society or at least to me as an individual. I might not agree with everything contained in these texts, but I think it wouldn't hurt to reflect on what is being said either. I feel like there's still a lot to be learned from the women of the past in relation to our situations today.

I think what I'm mostly looking for from these texts are some refreshing arguments to be made about me existing as my authentic self without shame or apology. I could probably seek to do that without the aid of books, but it doesn't hurt to think about it from the viewpoints of others. Anyways, that reminds me that I've also been listening to the audiobook called "Presence" by Lisa Lister. That book also talks about women taking up space without apology or shame. It's books like this that are helping me to feel more grounded in myself and empowered enough to use my voice in a way that matters.

In all honesty, reading bits of these books so far has made me feel like I should start reaching out to activist and charitable organizations where my actions and voice can make an actual difference. Whether they are more local or on a broader scale, I'd like to do my part as an active activist rather than someone that only tries to make slight changes happen online. To be more specific, I'd like to do my part for feminist organizations and charities where I do things like make blankets to give to premature babies in the hospital. There's a lot of potential for good that I could be doing, and thankfully with the profession I've been going to school for, I'll be able to make meaningful changes in my own community at least.

All of this is to say that I'm putting more efforts forward to use my voice in a stronger way that matters. Instead of modifying my speech to be as quiet and meek as it's been for 27 years, I'm trying to undo that conditioning by being more bold in my speech. Rather than sounding unsure of myself, I want to sound confident and louder in my speech. And I need to undo my conditioning where I look at the ground all the time and avoid eye contact with others. If I ever want people to take me seriously, I'm going to have to put in more effort into seeming more sure of myself. So that's what I'm aiming to do.