This article goes out to those who seek a reprieve from overwhelming headlines, discussions, or protests. I want you to understand that I am going through the same thing, where I can hardly hear my own voice let alone pick it apart and interpret it.
Understand that everyone feels as though their opinion is the valid and the correct one. This prompts everyone to express themselves freely (as they should), but it is easy for the situation to become aggressive. When this occurs, remember to think critically about what they are saying and how you fit into the topic at hand. What is your first reaction to the issue? What are you feeling? What values and morals are most significant to you? When you can answer those questions you are ensuring your opinion is not influenced by others.
Forming my own political and social opinions has never been a smooth ride, especially with outsiders nagging and pulling my mind apart. Considering others opinions is beneficial but to a certain extent, of course; the thinking of others can lead to a more broadened scope of perspective as well as help formulate your own values. However, when others have become the only voices you hear in your mind, then it is a problem. I have gone through this countless times where I lose track of the voice inside my head directing my feelings and opinion on subjects. Don’t let others kill off the voice inside your head!
Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the pursuit of discussion and praise the diversity of thoughts but sometimes things get out of hand where people attempt to copy and paste their ideas into your brain. Everyone has a voice, which is one of the things I admire most about a person; their ability to communicate what they believe in and stand by it without hesitation. It just so happens that many voices assembled in the name of shared ideas tend to bully and ridicule another form of thinking. This is where being strong in your convictions is key.
Your voice is your own. Use it.
My best advice for others struggling through this is simple but takes effort and concentration: Listen to yourself. Understand the feelings that course through you as headlines and political discussions bombard. Pull apart the emotions that play within you in reaction to a certain report or value being demonstrated. As protests and political opinions splay across all mediums of television and social media, take the time to research what is being protested and figure out the stance you will take on the issue.
Take charge of your political and social beliefs. I know you can do it.
