Use Your Words

I’m not going to launch into a massive political debate. No, I’m not happy with the result of the UK’s referendum, but I can’t change it. I couldn’t even do anything about it while the vote was happening, as the UK doesn’t allow its citizens to vote if they’ve never been registered while living in the UK itself. Trust me, I tried (and tried again this morning, just to make sure). They wouldn’t have me. It really sucks, but voilà. All I can say regarding that is:

If you are in a position to do so, then REGISTER! And then vote. No matter what the topic or your opinion may be.

What I do want to talk about today is the power of words. The power of picking up your pen (or plugging in your keyboard) and saying what you think. Yes, I know it’s hard. You don’t want to say something stupid. You don’t want to be attacked for your opinion. Yes, it’s easier to stand in the corner, watching and listening (trust me, I know) but not taking part because you don’t want to get hurt.

I completely understand. But if you want to implement change in the world (especially if you call yourself a writer), then you need to get your feet wet sometimes. There might be sharks swimming in those waters, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t launch your words like ships out to sea.

So you want to write an article explaining your position? Do so.

You want to write some poetry reflecting your feelings? Do so.

Yes, there are millions of other texts, all doing the same thing, all over the spectrum of opinion.

But guess what? They’re all people who decided to share their ideas too. Some will have their work shared, retweeted, reposted until it goes completely viral. It’ll become a thing. Thousands of people will read it, and some will love it and some will hate it. Some will even send death threats over it.

More likely, most people’s words will only be read by a few of their friends and family… and some will love what you have to say, and some will hate it.

But that’s okay. Because even if your words resonate with just one person, they can have a lasting effect. They can shape opinions, change minds, even change lives.

So what I’m saying is use your words… but measure them carefully and use them wisely.

Think about what you want to say and why you want to say it.

Then write it and share it.