Speaking our Truth

As you may or may not know, October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. A time to uplift survivors and spread awareness. In honor of this month, Amherst College displayed the Clothesline Project. This national project aims to break the silence around sexual violence by providing space to publicly display shirts to give voice to personal experiences. Although raw and painful, the messages on the shirts were bold and proud, uplifting friends and family members who have survived, raising awareness, and providing words of encouragment to other survivors.

These inspiring messages from such brave individuals have got me thinking a lot about the idea of speaking our truth. Oftentimes our culture might condemn this as complaining or being too much but I believe it can lead the way to a more compassionate society. While it might be uncomfortable and even challenging, expressing our genuine feelings and thoughts can foster greater empathy for ourselves and others, as we navigate our individual journeys. This perspective can guide us towards discovering that our past traumas explain our current difficult experiences rather than condemn us.

Over time, this honesty with ourselves and those around us can allow us to be more confident, as we no longer feel the need to conceal aspects of our true selves. In this process, our presence can serve as an inspiration to others, reassuring them that they are not alone and offering hope for a brighter future. So as you practice, on and off the mat, I invite you to feel your presence, take up space, and stand confidently in your truth.