Lately, I’ve found myself trapped in a crammed cavity of writer’s block. Writing for the opinion section of any publication presents endless opportunity; one can write about simply anything that they feel strongly about. So why is it in the grand abyss of issues and topics that I collide with every day, I find myself having trouble coming up with one that I feel empowered enough to take a stand on?
Perhaps I am too much of a pleaser. Maybe I try too hard to come up with peaceful compromises. Maybe I keep my mouth shut to avoid any dispute or conflict. But what kind of writer is afraid to express their opinion? Now, this isn’t to say that I do not have an opinion or two, but often my mind is louder than my lips. Simultaneously, each time I send off a piece of writing to my editors, it no longer resides solely within my mind. So I think, as I believe one should, before I send. But perhaps I think too much. Why do I feel so confident beating on the keyboard of my laptop, but when I am forced to strum a vocal chord or two, I back down?
I know that I have some opinions that are unpopular. In fact, I am sure I have many. For example, I do not want to spend a semester studying abroad. Oh, and I think that bacon is gross. Or what about this whammy—I don’t like Sperrys. May they be earth-shattering or mindless, they are my opinions and it’s time for me to eagerly share them.
Why does it matter? Why should we speak our minds? What is to be gained? If you feel as though it is best to keep opinions to yourself, I want to ask you to reconsider as I illustrate the following scenario:
You are sitting in a discussion section for a class that you find particularly not engaging (for me, it’s literature… don’t get me started). Your eyes glaze over as you listen to a discussion on the metaphors involved in the week’s assigned chapter that you did not read, when someone suggests that perhaps memory does not exist because everything is documented digitally. Do you disagree? If you share an opposing opinion, the class is able to examine and contrast the two ideas, perhaps producing further progress through enlightening discussion.
Let me try another example. You’re on spring break with your family, when a discussion on gender binaries somehow begins. One family member says something fairly distasteful about the subject. You either present a rebuttal, or you do not. The truth is, if you sit quietly, that family member may not even see the fault in their ways. They may not learn that what they have said is wrong or hurtful. However, sharing your opinion would teach them the fault in their ways. Start that ripple.
Don’t get me wrong, there is definitely a time and place for everything, especially dicey conversations. Your cousin’s baby shower is probably not an appropriate time to ask everyone who they are voting for in the next election.
If you remember nothing else from this article, you must share any opinion kindly and respectfully. There is no reason to throw daggers into any discussion, and your opinion will be more persuasive if you present it calmly and objectively. Finally, don’t forget to be open. Remember that people come from different backgrounds and lives. No two opinions have to align and we should all allow ourselves to be malleable.
My point is, don’t just have an opinion. Share it. When issues present themselves, reflect. Develop your thoughts, and present them politely. Embrace differing opinions. Add to differing opinions. Keep the discussion rolling. Be eager to learn.
Do you ever have writers block? Do you ever feel like you’re having trouble expressing yourself? How do you solve these problems? Is there something in particular that you do to clear your mind? Please send all comments, questions and conerns to at opinion@dailycardinal.com.
