I've always been an opinionated person. From my earliest days, I've enjoyed observing the world around me, synthesizing the information, and weighing in on the debates that exist. I've always wanted to dig deep, understand issues more, and work for a better world. I am very sensitive to people's feelings--I never want to hurt people or see people get hurt, and as an empath, I often feel people's emotions as soon as I come in contact with them. This sensitivity has been tough to navigate in many ways. As a young child, I was quick to cry and get upset. In many ways, I was serious to a fault. This personality made teaching difficult because I was always trying to help everyone, and as an educator with lots of children to teach, families to serve, and colleagues to work with, it was impossible to do all that I could see.
This desire to make better coupled with sensitivity, makes it impossible for me not to weigh in on societal issues, potential, and events. Everywhere I look I see potential for positive change, and when I share my thoughts, I receive feedback which hones my thoughts more via those who agree and disagree. No one person can know all or be all, and we learn more and become better when we're open to the critique, multiple perspectives, and varied experiences of life that exist.
So I will continue to share my thoughts. I will heed the feedback and commit to the research needed to deepen my opinions in ways that are positive and helpful. When we share what we think we have to be sensitive, open minded, and willing to change our point of view if we believe that's the right thing to do. I encourage others to thoughtfully share their opinions too. When too many people become quiet, our culture doesn't grow and connect in the positive ways possible. Onward.