During a time when tensions are high, I think it is important to see that a lot of the opinions or events going on in the world start with us. If we don’t use our voice to influence the world then nothing will ever change.

However, using your voice sometimes comes with a price. Not everyone is going to agree with you, and some will not except your opinion even though that is exactly what it is, your opinion.

That is why I think it is so important to stick up for yourself. State your opinion on whatever is happening around you and own it. If someone doesn't like that, that is to bad, you probably don't like their opinion either.

But in my experience I have learned that it is important to respectfully, agree to disagree. You should give your opinion in an intelligent, but yet respectful way. You should stand up for yourself at the same time. If you do that, then you will simply put them into a place where they cannot come out of.

It is always important to remember that because you have an opinion means that everyone else around you will have one as well. That is not a bad thing, that’s life, and although some people maybe not accept that, it’s the truth, and you, yourself, can change that.

If you make your voice heard, and let your opinions matter, than you can change the world.

It is also important to not let things like the comments or disagreements from other people get you down. They can comment on what you say, they can call you stupid, and wrong, and hateful, because you choose to stand for something that they do not, but you will always have your voice, and you can use that to fuel positivity and awareness in the world.

Whatever side you are on, the most important ideas and beliefs start with you, and they come from within you. When you decide to open that up to others, always be ready to stand up for that and defend yourself. There will always be someone there to take you down, but how you handle yourself is everything. How you defend what you’re saying, means more than anything else.

Your voice matters, your opinion matters, no matter who agrees with it or not, you can use it to change the world if you really want to. The world was built on disagreements that were resolved by people backing their own opinions. If you do that you will never fail.

Always remember to keep going, keep saying what you need to in order to make a difference, and always stand up for yourself.