Poet Clint Smith Amazes Crowd at TFA 25

Summary

In this powerful speech, the speaker reflects on the tradition of giving up something for Lent, recounting past sacrifices and culminating in a year of silence. They realize their voice had been muted, not just for Lent, but for a lifetime, as they chose silence over speaking out against injustice. The narrative shifts to a passionate call to action, vowing to break the silence and use their voice to support others, confront ignorance, and advocate for dignity. The speech concludes with a commitment to live boldly, embracing the power of the spoken word to enact change.

Takeaways

• 🙏 The speaker grew up in a Catholic family where Lent was marked by giving up indulgences as a form of sacrifice.
• 🗣️ One year, the speaker chose to give up speaking, realizing the value of their voice and the impact of silence.
• 🤔 The speaker reflects on times they remained silent when they should have spoken up, such as when a friend was bullied or when they witnessed injustice.
• 😔 They acknowledge their past silence as a form of appeasement to ignorance and a lack of validation for those who needed it.
• 😶 The script describes silence as a manifestation of fear, a tool that can be used to suppress the voice and the truth.
• 🔊 The speaker draws parallels between silence and historical atrocities, emphasizing its destructive potential.
• 💪 The speaker resolves to break the silence, vowing to speak up for those who are marginalized and to confront ignorance.
• 👥 They commit to treating everyone with humanity, from homeless individuals to their own students, by acknowledging their worth and dignity.
• 🎤 The speaker decides to live life as if they always have a microphone, using their voice to advocate for others and to educate.
• 🌟 The message concludes with the empowerment of using one's voice as a tool for change, rather than remaining silent.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the speaker's story?

The main theme of the speaker's story is the significance and impact of silence, particularly in the context of personal and societal issues.

Why did the speaker choose to give up speaking during Lent?

The speaker chose to give up speaking during Lent as a form of sacrifice, believing it to be the most valuable thing they could offer, but later realized they had been silent in many important moments already.

What did the speaker realize about their own silence?

The speaker realized that they had been silent in moments when they should have spoken up, such as when a friend was bullied, a homeless man needed acknowledgment, or when their students were disrespected.

What does the speaker associate silence with?

The speaker associates silence with fear, ignorance, and the perpetuation of injustices like the Rwanda genocide.