Speaking Out - Find Your Voice

The concept of "Voice" is complicated. There is the literal interpretation, that mere aspect of us that is emitted from our vocal chords (hopefully in a discernible language). Beyond that though is the metaphor, "voice" is drawn into many issues.

Self-confidence: Voice is our ability to speak out, at all, ever.
Appeasement: It is what we want to say rather than what we do say.
Justice: Reacting to stop something you know to be wrong, despite personal danger.
Self-worth: Acknowledging that your input is as valid as another's.
Biblical: That spark of the divine.
Force: The angry lilt of control, like an irritated parent.
Passion: That echo of proof that rings when someone speaks outwardly.

Psychology, Sociology, English, Speech and Philosophy all dabble in this realm and they do so because of its unique quality of being undeniably a part of the human experience. We praise our orators for the skills which rely on much more than lines on paper and we emote with our musicians who seem to reach into us to stoke our fires, or calm our sorrows.

If we set aside the metaphysical though and refocus on the here and the now I would like to address a recent opportunity where I had to use my voice.

My friends and I gathered at a local restaurant and encountered a variety of petty issues. Issues that alone would not have been cause for much if any particular displeasure, but when compounded it turned what could have been a perfect evening into a shade less. There is the cursory tradition these days of having a manager walk to every table to make a nominal gesture of asking "How was everything this evening;" a situation that is usually so brisk that the patron never finishes swallowing their bite of food to answer before the manager leaves.

This was not the case for us because I specifically requested the manager. It can be difficult to break out of that expected behavior, for which sociology calls normative behavior, and into new territory. Facing the manager was tough despite how brief it was for even though they are the person not my boss they are "in charge" of the restaurant at that time which is given its own measure of respect. However, my complaints were valid and we had spend a not insignificant sum (though the cost of the meal should not be a factor) so I informed the manager of my opinion of waiter, high, and of the issues pertaining to management such as few waitstaff, long waits despite unused tables, poor problem solving, as low.

The outcome was positive for us patrons, both physically and emotionally. Yes we received some complimentary desserts and appetizers, but the true win was in the emotion battle where several of my companions wanted to let it pass and some did not. They felt it was "too insignificant" that there was a level, a barometer of badness, that needed to be met that somehow had not been.

To them and to all of you, I want to make it clear that you will neither get your way nor influence, in this case the restaurant, to make changes if you don't make an effort to provide your opinion. Do not think I speak only of being critical, if there is an aspect of a place or a thing with which you have fallen in love then let their manager, their owner, their creator know. Make an effort to find your Voice and I promise you it will serve you well.