Who else got chills while listening to Oprah’s speech at the Golden Globes?!?

This part of the speech particularly resonated with me:

…”what I know for sure is that speaking your truth is the most powerful tool we all have. And I’m especially proud and inspired by all the women who have felt strong enough and empowered enough to speak up and share their personal stories. Each of us in this room are celebrated because of the stories that we tell, and this year we became the story.” 

In a time where the line between reality and deceit is becoming increasingly blurred, knowing where you stand and having the courage to speak your truth is crucial. “Speaking your truth” doesn’t only apply to sexual harassment. It applies to all truths, YOUR truths.

I used to think my stories and struggles weren’t worth sharing, because I wasn’t famous enough, my issues didn’t always feel substantial enough, and my truths just didn’t feel like they were… enough.

But the fact is, EVERY personal truth counts. It pains my heart to encounter young people who tell me that their struggles don’t matter or presume that no one can relate. Every voice has value, significance and deserves to be heard.

One of my resolutions this year is to open up, to myself and to others. I encourage you to do the same, whether it’s sharing a secret truth with your family, friends, followers or even more importantly, coming face-to-face with yourself about a truth you’ve been too scared to admit.

–Esther Yoo