I didn’t see it at first, the irony of opinions slowly but surely becoming my favorite Torch section. It wasn’t until the end of last school year, when the executive opinions editor gave me a vinyl sticker labeled “Opinionated,” that I realized I’d surprised myself. I’d ended up as an editor for the section of the newspaper fueled by arguments and hot takes.
There’s no question I usually enjoy my English and history classes the most. I love taking the time to sit with a challenging question or discuss a heated issue. I’m also one of the most indecisive and conflict-averse people I know. I have to admit I’ve always been more of an observer than a willing participant when it comes to discourse. Throughout my life, I’ve learned to equate voicing my own dissent with opening the door to scrutiny, tension and ultimately, discomfort.
The most valuable takeaway from my time in Torch hasn’t been how to conduct a proper interview or flawlessly format a newspaper page. It’s been the importance of finding the courage to share an opinion. Every time I read an opinion piece, I think about how brave that writer has to be, choosing to open up about something that probably matters a lot to them and willingly letting in a flood of constructive criticism from us editors. As someone who doesn’t find taking the hot seat to be an easy feat, seeing that courage has brought so many layers of meaning to my experience in Torch.
Being part of Torch has not only given me a sense of inspiration seeing others share their stories, but also a space to bring my own ideas to the table. Weeks ago, I’d felt torn about whether I wanted to submit this opinion for our October issue, and then the irony hit me that again, here I was: an opinions editor trying to step out of her comfort zone to write an opinion about opinions. I realized that I’d regret not writing this piece, and I wanted to challenge myself to seize the opportunity and speak up. Now that I’m writing this, sharing what I have to say, I’m also making a promise to myself that I’ll try my best to do that always, even when, and especially when, it feels daunting to do so.
Choosing to share our perspectives takes courage, but it’s worth it. Speaking up will sometimes feel intimidating and mean facing backlash for our ideas. But persisting past that discomfort empowers us to further the discussion and reframe the norm, one opinion at a time. By truly listening to one another, we can learn multitudes about other people’s experiences, address uncomfortable issues with honesty and give representation to those whose voices have not yet been acknowledged. No opinion is insignificant.
If I can do it, then you can too. Don’t be afraid to share what you have to say, and know wholeheartedly that the world deserves to hear your ideas and perspectives. As my first opinion piece comes to a close, I feel as if everything has come full circle. I’m reminded of the moment I saw that “Opinionated” sticker and knew I’d not only love my opinions section, but I also didn’t want to leave it without speaking my truth. I’m ready to take the hot seat at the table, and I hope you’re ready too.