Speak Up

“When I write, I feel like an armless, legless man with a crayon in his mouth.”

Those are the words of Kurt Vonnegut.  And some days his sentiment resounds pretty strongly for me.  I want to be completely honest with you and tell you that we, as writers for Every Monday Matters, don’t always wake up every morning with a snazzy story and a bonus inspirational thought on our minds to lead you through your week. Sometimes it is difficult to vocalize our overwhelming desire to come alongside the world to make a difference.

It should come as no surprise to you that we’re regular people just like you.  We face similar traffic jams, family dilemmas, work deadlines, home repairs, and rainy days as you.  So sometimes in my pursuit to impact my surroundings (and to encourage you to do the same) I do feel like that “armless, legless man with a crayon in his mouth.”  Sometimes it is difficult to know where to create change and how to make it happen.  But the one thing I don’t lose sight of is the neccessity to try.  Often in the attempt, something beautiful unfolds.  Kindred friendships are found. Circumstances change for the better.  Movements are started.

Some of you are facing some tough stuff today that may make the world seem a little unconquerable for the time being. You may feel tired or exhausted.  You may feel like you don’t have much to offer.  You may feel like you don’t know how to address the obvious needs that are present within your community.  More than anything, I want you to know that there’s a good chance the people around you are willing and eager to partner with you.  You’re not alone.  Like every good super hero, you  need a team to support you.  You just need to speak up and let those around you know where you’re coming from and what you’re attempting to do.

Don’t let yourself be fooled into believing that you’re not good enough or strong enough or don’t have the skills to leave a mark.  I, for one, have faith in you and your abilities.

Know that there are a several of us here who want to partner with you too.  We’re here to dialogue with you and to help you find your voice in your endeavor to impact your surroundings.  So feel welcome to leave comments and get involved in the discussions we’re having.  You matter and we want to hear your story.