The Cost of Speaking Out and the Strength It Brings

There is a cost to speaking out. I have felt it deeply. When I have taken a stand, people have walked away. Friendships (and family) I thought were solid disappeared, and I found myself questioning whether I had made a mistake. But with time, I realized something profound: if standing by my values makes people uncomfortable enough to leave, then they were never truly aligned with me to begin with.

This realization has been both painful and liberating. It has given me the strength to continue speaking my truth, even when my voice shakes. Each time I do, I see others finding the courage to do the same. This is how change happens—not always in grand gestures, but in the quiet, determined acts of individuals refusing to stay silent.

Learning from the Past

I have always been drawn to the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. and the legacy of Susan B. Anthony. Martin Luther King Jr.’s philosophy of nonviolent resistance and his unwavering fight for civil rights continue to resonate deeply with me. He demonstrated that moral courage and steadfast commitment to justice could inspire lasting change. Susan B. Anthony, for example, fought tirelessly for women’s rights but sometimes prioritized white women’s suffrage over the rights of Black and Indigenous women. Acknowledging both the good and the shortcomings is essential. We don’t have to be perfect to make a difference, but we do have to be willing to take action.

When we reflect on historical movements, we often ask ourselves, “What would I have done?” But the real question is, “What am I doing now?” Just because something is legal does not make it morally right. Silence in the face of injustice is complicity. That is why I continue to speak, even when it’s difficult.

The Power of Small Actions

Speaking out doesn’t always mean taking to the streets in protest or writing fiery speeches. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a smile to someone having a bad day, letting someone merge in traffic, or offering kindness where it’s least expected. We may never know the impact we have, but these small gestures ripple outward, influencing others to be more compassionate.

I have learned that not every action has to be monumental. We do not have to save the world on our own. We simply have to be part of the process. If you are unsure where to start, begin with something small—perhaps signing a petition, donating to a cause, or having a conversation that challenges injustice. Each small act builds confidence, and the more we practice courage, the stronger it becomes.

Balancing Advocacy and Self-Care

This is something I still struggle with. Advocacy takes energy, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed. I have learned to step back when needed, prioritizing self-care so I can continue giving to others. Rest, proper nourishment, and time spent in nature rejuvenate my spirit. Spiritual practices, prayer, and energy work help me stay grounded, while thinking, writing, and reflecting have become essential tools for processing emotions and finding my strength. Without tending to myself, I cannot fully show up for others.

We are in a time of great uncertainty, and it would be easy to retreat into fear. But we are also in a time of great potential—where small acts of courage build upon one another to create lasting change. My hope is that by sharing my journey, it helps you find the strength to take your own steps forward.

Let’s move together, in love, in compassion, and in hope.