Foreign Policy Blogs

The Root of Power

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Where does one find true power? Power is not in money, property, education or jobs, power is with all of us, in our words. If we can only learn to harness the power that we have and use our voices and learn to listen to the words of those around us.

When we listen closely we can hear the words that are not spoken, when we speak our words can touch people in a way that can't be compared to any kind of touch. Words have the power to touch ones heart and soul, in a way that a brush of a hand or embrace could never do. Words linger in our memories and out hearts, long after the sensation of an embrace has faded. Words are filled with power and might, it is words that cause revolutions, it words that bring peace and justice. Your voice is your power, however it is only as powerful as you allow it to be. If you fail to use your voice then your power is lost, you will not reach out to anyone, you cannot allow yourself to be silenced by fear. We must all speak for those who have been silenced, take not for granted your freedomuse your voice to unlock the door for those who are enslaved.

If we could only learn to listen a little bit, then maybe we would hear the cry's of so many children in need. Children who's voices have been silenced by hunger and violence, voices that have been tainted by fear. It only takes one person to hear their cries, for once one learns to listen they have so much power in their knowledge that they can now use their words to speak for the silenced voices of so many children.

I do not mean that touch and action have no meaning, but I believe the real power is within us, it is our ability to listen, often to what is not spoken, and use our voice to bring awareness, to make a change, to open others eyes.

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Author

Cassandra Clifford

Cassandra Clifford is the Founder and Executive Director of Bridge to Freedom Foundation, which works to enhance and improve the services and opportunities available to survivors of modern slavery. She holds an M.A., International Relations from Dublin City University in Ireland, as well as a B.A., Marketing and A.S., Fashion Merchandise/Marketing from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island.

Cassandra has previously worked in both the corporate and charity sector for various industries and causes, including; Child Trafficking, Learning Disabilities, Publishing, Marketing, Public Relations and Fashion. Currently Cassandra is conducting independent research on the use of rape as a weapon of war, as well as America’s Pimp Culture and its Impact on Modern Slavery. In addition to her many purists Cassandra is also working to develop a series of children’s books.

Cassandra currently resides in the Washington, D.C. metro area, where she also writes for the Examiner, as the DC Human Rights Examiner, and serves as an active leadership member of DC Stop Modern Slavery.


Areas of Focus:
Children's Rights; Human Rights; Conflict