Speak Up

When I was in 2nd grade, I performed Usher’s “U Remind Me” during a talent show. I practiced singing that in front of my mom for weeks and I thought I did my thing come the night of the talent show. The very next day of school, kids in my class were making fun of me. That was the beginning of the emotional trauma and lack of confidence I’ve carried throughout my life when it comes to having a platform where I know people are watching & listening to what I have to say or any type of public speaking.

During the summer of 2011, I saw this picture on Tumblr. I don’t know who shot it, the story behind the photo, but mannn it really impacted me. This picture was honestly an awakening for me!!

I used to be scared to speak up because of my fear of failure. I used to alway fear people would hold against me the fact that my voice occasionally shakes, I fidget, I don’t always look people in their eyes, and I talk with my hands. However, I learned to still speak up despite the insecurity and fear because your truth is strong enough to set someone else free. I soon learned that speaking is not a gift, it’s a skill. The more you practice & prepare, the better you become at it. There’s more to this story I hope to one day share but I hope this helps someone today.

Sometimes I still feel like the same young boy who fears sharing what’s on his mind & heart, but I constantly remind myself of this: your voice matters, your story has value, and you are more than enough.

- NM