A Minute w/ Mandy: The Importance of Our Voice

The fourth of July has always been one of the most special holidays for me. If you’re new here, welcome! Let me take a couple minutes to introduce some lesser known facts about myself, in relation to this topic. I grew up as a military brat and went on to graduate from the Naval Academy, and later served 6 years as a Marine officer in California. As an American and one that served, there’s nothing more important to me than the freedom of my family and our country. I’ve always been a sass mouth and smart-ass, and that vocal freedom is something we all often take for granted, especially in today’s world. For today’s post, I want to hone in on just that: the importance of our voice.

Our voice is freedom.

I often get saddened seeing other Americans telling other Americans what they should do, believe, or say, and what is officially right or wrong. That’s not freedom. When I signed up to serve my country, it was to defend that very right to have an opinion, regardless of what it was. The right to speak your voice through voting, social media, and in public (without breaking the law of course) without fear of incarceration. I wanted to defend the right of every American to live out their dream and share their voice with the world. It’s your right to dress, speak your mind, and live your life according to your own personal beliefs. I love that we as Americans are blessed enough to have that option.

Don’t fear debate.

Our voice is important. As we know from experience in our careers and personal life, there’s always more than one right answer to solve problems. It comes from seeing things through someone else’s eyes and voice: it takes a conversation, not an ultimatum. If you know me in real life, you know I’m always down for a rational debate. It’s what helps each of us grow. It’s why it’s a cornerstone of my content: without limits. When we divide things, we limit each other, and our growth as a nation.

Change your mindset.

Read outside your comfort zone. Experience new things, and think outside the box every once in a while. I love learning from my friends who share different ideas and thoughts on life, as it helps me discover new things about myself, and how I navigate the world. Listening to others should never be a crime. It’s how acceptance is born.

While I am no longer actively serving in the military, I would without a doubt lay down my life again to protect the freedom of each of your voices and my own. My challenge to you: go out and celebrate just that. Celebrate your individuality and that of those around you. It’s a powerful freedom.

What are you proud to stand for?