Voices

I think we are quick to forget the power of voices. We argue often over whether the written or face-to-face communication is better. In support of the face-to-face communication goes the statistic that something like 90% of communication is through body language. In support of the written word is the idea that writing allows for revision – erasing the poorly formed thoughts and sentences – allowing us to put our “best” self forward. But we have forgotten voice. If I can see you speak, but can't hear the tone, if I can read your words but not hear your voice, I have lost something.

           Last year on 9/11, I wrote about how seemingly pointless is was to me for the name of every life lost on that day to be read year after year. By the time I thought through completely, I came to an understanding of why some might find it helpful, but I still did not. As a New Yorker, 9/11 recollections haunt my life throughout September. It was a tragedy, but I was nine. And to be honest that probably contributes greatly to fact that the reading of those names stirs very little emotion in my heart. It’s not that I don’t care. I just couldn’t properly understand and therefore couldn’t be fully affected by what happened ten years ago. I was nine.

            I’m nineteen now, almost twenty. I understand more fully now what happened on 9/11 than I did ten years ago. But my memories will never be as emotional or haunting as the memories of those who understood it as they lived it. But the voices are haunting. The tapes of those in control towers who frantically attempted to understand why planes weren’t responding, why they were crashing into buildings. The voices. . .

            Voices have power. Your voice has power. Whether you’re writing or speaking, the emotion conveyed through your voice is powerful. Be careful how you use it.

Sincerely,