Lisa Apolinski is a professional speaker, blogger, and digital strategist. With her company, 3DogWrite.com, she works with event managers to get their message to attendees, particularly through digital channels, on and off the show floor.
I was fortunate enough to lecture at MPI SEC a few weeks ago in Florida. My allergies did not like the weather and started acting up. On my way to Seattle right after the lecture the unthinkable happened: I lost my voice. I have not had laryngitis since college, so you can imagine my dismay.
Now anyone who has attended my lectures or knows me understands two things. First, my voice is loud, and I have no problem using it. Second, my company is based on using words (both oral and written). What I did not realize is how powerful my voice actually is.
The week I had no voice I was not only on vacation, but I also was on an Alaskan cruise with, it seemed, about 10,000 other people. I was unable to voice what I wanted in that crowd, and I was unable to stop behavior or actions that I didn’t want. What resulted was the overwhelming feeling of being powerless.
There are so many people in the world who have no voice (the poor, the elderly, the young, the discriminated). Not having my voice for several days was disheartening, but I knew I would get my voice back. How many people in our world today have no hope for having a voice? It gave me pause and reminded me what a blessing my voice really is.
As we write, comment and speak, I hope all of my readers think about the fact we can do so. I took my voice for granted and the incredible power I can wield with my words. Even in my line of work, I am ashamed to say, I did not recognize it until it was missing.
You have the power of your voice, so be respectful of it and remember that it is a gift and privilege to be able to speak what you mean, and to have that message heard. Be proud of your message and your voice, as you never know when you might lose it, if only for a moment.
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