Being Vocal in a World That Prefers Silence

In a world where media is constantly telling people that their stories and experiences matter, and that to share your story is to help and encourage others, exists a world that simultaneously only wants you to share what they want to hear. Whether it be childhood trauma, any sort of assaults or harassment, or even more sensitive topics such as the loss of a baby or one's experience with domestic violence, it's hard to know who is willing to hear you, and what about your story they're willing to hear. People don't like to be uncomfortable, they don't like "messy" or instability - the thing, though, is that that's exactly what life is. It's messy, it's unstable, and it's uncomfortable. By sharing your story, though, down to every detail you're comfortable sharing, you're letting people know that it's okay for them to come forward as well, and that there exists a community of those who have gone through similar circumstances. In a world that prefers silence, being vocal is truly what combats the loneliness and isolation that comes with being silent, or silenced.

I was recently presented with an astounding opportunity that I was elated about, but come to find out that because I recently (about a year and a month as I'm writing this) exited a domestic violence relationship (along with some other factors such as my consistency in sharing my emotions, life story, and the trials I still face on social media) they need to reconsider their decision and take a step back. I was devastated and in tears, and in desperation almost decided to allow myself to be less transparent and speak about my experience with more discretion, but then I thought about it - that wouldn't be true to who I am and what I'm trying to do for the foster care community. My story and experiences serve as proof that through life's consistently unfair tribulations, healing is possible and a new flower can blossom from the same space as a flower that's withering. Our lives are a bouquet of flowers all blossoming and withering at different paces, and we need to look at and acknowledge the entire bouquet to truly enjoy what it has to offer.

Oversharing exists, but sharing exactly how much you are wanting to and willing to share - especially when accompanied by the purpose of trying to encourage, advocate, and educate - is a necessity for change.

Share your story, and tell it exactly how you want to tell it. There will always be someone who will benefit from the community you create by sharing.