Malala Yousafzai: speaking truth neither exaggerating nor suppressing (VIDEO)
In her historic speech to the United Nations, 16 year old Malala Yousafzai demonstrates a perfect example of the mindful communication principle of “speaking truth, neither exaggerating nor suppressing.” Her words reveal that true power comes from reflecting our human experience as it actually is. If Malala cried for vengeance or focused simply on her own personal hurt, she wouldn’t have as much potential to change the situations she’s speaking about. If she’d hidden herself away and said nothing — a perfectly understandable reaction — then her power would be suppressed and she could have little effect. [cc_blockquote_right]Our words can change the whole world. Because we are all together, united for the cause of education. And if we want to achieve our goal, then let us empower ourselves with the weapon of knowledge. And let us shield ourselves with unity and togetherness.[/cc_blockquote_right] Instead, she takes a brave “we-first” approach to speaking truth that reaches into the human heart directly, commanding a standing ovation from the entire U.N. Bravo Malala. May we take you as an example when we’re frustrated, in pain, and faced with seemingly overwhelming odds.
From her speech: “Our words can change the whole world. Because we are all together, united for the cause of education. And if we want to achieve our goal, then let us empower ourselves with the weapon of knowledge. And let us shield ourselves with unity and togetherness.”
The full speech can be viewed here.
Interestingly, within days, the leadership of the Taliban felt the need to make a statement regretting Malala’s shooting. While hardly an apology, senior Taliban leader Adnan Rasheed claimed that he had “brotherly feelings” for Malala — a rather unprecedented level of civility for the Taliban.