Zero Silence
Encouragement for Speaking Up
My latest PoetWithAPressPass.com poem uses the phrase Zero Silence as its title and inspiration. Those words are the title of a documentary written and produced by Jonny von Wallstrom about ten years ago during the protests of the Arab Spring, that amazing uprising of young people ready to overthrow the oppression of authoritarian governments in the Middle East. My poem deconstructs and expands the words zero and silence in a call for a vigorous response to today’s oppressive leaders.
After posting it and then rereading it all week, I see that it may be more about my personal frustration with cruel and illegal policies than about recognizing those who are already speaking up. I am guessing many of you are in that active group. My apologies.
For others who are still sustaining silence despite recognition of how bad things are, I decided to offer (and partake in) a Substack group counseling session for awakening our courage and strength as citizens of an administration gone mad.
I invite your to hear these questions as if spoken in a lovely, knowing voice! Think about each one for a moment, then read the imaginary counselor’s comments. I hope you are somehow comforted or encouraged. Here goes:
How do you feel about people keeping quiet even when there is trouble in the world?
There are certainly advantages to playing it safe, letting others argue and protest.
There is also the weight of a heart heavy with the guilt of not speaking up.
Whose words and actions do you admire?
The world is full of people whose speeches, writings, songs, and art inspire us.
Return to those who remind you how you could make a difference in the world.
In what situations do you feel compelled (or even tempted) to “speak up”?
All over the world, people are suffering and change needs to happen.
Use what makes you mad or sad or ready to take on injustice to help you do it!
What political or cultural topics most incite you to action?
Each of us has experiences that have broken our hearts or opened our minds.
Remembering those things is a good way to invigorate and focus your energies.
What discomforts and fears send you into silence?
Taking action usually involves some risk, threats, danger, and sacrifice.
Consider your fears and measure the actual risks and rewards of your choices.
What situations or occurences compel you toward speaking out?
Despite the risks involved, being strong enough to be a thought leader is freeing!
Your memories of times you have felt strong and smart can give you courage.
What is one way in your daily personal life that you could “speak your peace”?
Most of us see and hear things all day long that deserve a rebuttal.
In your conversations, consider ways to respond to others in honesty.
Where might you find encouraging allies or empowering conversation partners?
There are, of course, people who disagree with us or dislike our ideas.
Find your tribe. Choose places where people are likely to share your world view.
What if all of us were confidently and compassionately living out loud?
You are an inspiring person with a heart for truth and justice.
Step out. Speak up. Live Your Inspirational Life. We Need You!
I hope you enjoyed today’s session. See you next time!