Tears filled my eyes as I listened to the girl who silenced the world for 5 minutes speak to the UN. She is a wise feminine leader who cares and found the courage to speak from her heart. Powerful! Even though I watched this before - a month or two ago - today, at the beginning of the new decade, I found myself moved in a new way. After the video ended, I asked myself, what is mine to say and am i saying it? Suddenly I am curious - where do I lack the courage to speak with this kind of forthright honesty and care? Where do I hold back what I know to be true? What uncomfortable questions do I keep myself from asking?In my desire to keep things "nice" and peaceful I know that sometimes I do all of these. While I believe in right timing and right dosage for any communication I also want to be sure that I am speaking up and saying what needs to be said in my life and work. And, I want to say it in such a way that they hear me and it begins a dialogue that helps us make a change or take the next step.One time a colleague gave me a great suggestion, "speak in such a way that the other person will be thrilled to hear what you have to say." That's a hard assignment! To blend what needs and wants to be said with saying in a way that is caring, compassionate, in connection, and moving us forward instead of inciting a reaction. whew. I have some learning to do.I appreciate this young girl. I look forward to hearing what you have to say.
