Twenty five years ago, at the end of September, Dr. Seuss passed away. We all know his many children's books, and he inspired me as a writer when I heard that he got 43 rejection letters for his first story. So I made a goal of 100 rejections for my first book and I'm up to 32.
I read an article the other day that talked about his 1954 book, Horton Hears a Who! When Horton the elephant protects the Whos and tells them to speak up so everyone can hear them. Some may not believe the Whos are important, or even real people, but Horton does. And when the Whos make enough noise, the jungle animals hear them and they survive.
The article explained that this is a parable for speaking up for those who are downtrodden, for calling out bigotry and for ensuring that all people are treated equally, regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation, weight or bank account.
A lot of wisdom in a children's book from 62 years ago. And quite timely today.
We can raise our voices with how we shop, with what we teach our children, with how we treat our neighbours. We can raise our voices by standing up for someone who is being bullied or mistreated. We can raise our voices by voting.
Dr. Seuss wrote in Horton Hears a Who!, "We've GOT to make noises in greater amounts! So, open your mouth lad! For every voice counts!"
Never stop speaking up for what you believe in. Your voice can make all the difference.