Many of us have been in situations in which we have not communicated what we think for fear of what others will say or looking bad. We have lost conversations on issues important to humanity with friends, colleagues, family, etc. But have you ever looked at the impact of your thoughts and ideas? Have you ever thought that when you are silent you not only deprive yourself of communicating your ideals but also those of others?
I’ll tell you a great example of good youth impact. I imagine you already know, but if not, I’ll tell you here. Anna Halpine, a 21-year-old Canadian student, full of knowledge and great ideals, helped the world in 1999. At the 1999 Conference on Population and Development, 32 young people believed it necessary to proclaim abortion as a human right, granting sexual rights to children and the waiving of parental rights. Halpine realized that what they were saying ignored basic needs like clean water, education and employment. So the next day, she and other young people distributed the Pink Flyer at the Conference, which offered a more holistic view of the human person and their needs. Thanks to Anna’s act, the World Youth Alliance was founded at the Cairo +5 Conference on Population and Development, an organization committed to promoting the dignity of the person and building solidarity among young people.
We have underestimated ourselves! And that is the truth. We know well that we are still young, that we have a race to run, experiences to live, and people to help. But don’t let this stop us, shut or restrict us from telling the truth. It is normal to doubt, we are human, we are afraid of the unknown… but also, as humans, we are rational, aware of the situation. Likewise, we are possessors of a soul full of intellect and will, which guides us to the path of wisdom, with which we can guide others and the world towards the truth. And you will tell me, what if I don’t know if what I want to say is virtuous? Well, this thinking must contain prudence, justice, human rights and finally, it has to ensure the dignity of the other.
And now, ask yourself: Isn’t it time to speak the truth?
