Since CLS started I have noticed something.

Following the events that led up to CLS starting up seemed to ignite my confidence when talking about my political beliefs. In the past I would take a side similar to whomever I was talking to. I was afraid of saying something that would make me an outcast... I didn't realize that, believe it or not, most people are accepting of other views.

I have had this experience when discussing politics, religion, culture, and everything between. I no longer feel like my opinions should be held down. Being able to discuss what is happening in the world is a necessary skill nowadays. Hearing the way that Colin positions his thoughts gave me confidence I could do the same. Now I feel that I could express myself to someone with a rational mind, without fear of becoming "the other.

But what all this really tells me, is that times are strange. There is no reason anyone should be self censoring their opinions in this way. I have found that many people share the same thoughts as I do. They were just afraid to come forward just as I was.

So go ahead and start a conversation with the people around you. We need to know we aren't alone.