In some respects the political context of the statement mutes its power and importance. Cynics see it as a premeditated softening of her image in an effort to attract new voters, especially women. Others see a hidden agenda, a strong statement of independence by a candidate with a massive network of supporters all of whom want something from her, and a high profile husband who often upstages her.Frankly, I don't know what to make of it myself. One could question why it took so long to find her own voice when she has spent over 30 years in politics and now seeks the highest office in the land. We may discover more as time goes on. We can be sure it wasn't a slip of the tongue. Hillary Clinton, whatever one may think of her, doesn't make such statements without calculation. Some think that demonstrates seriousness and clarity; others think it depicts a robotic, programmed woman with no soul.
But in truth I don't really care what was behind the statement. I'm sure most of us have found ourselves in situations where life's circumstances leave us feeling inauthentic, abandoned, and experiencing what some call anomie--an uncertain sense of self. In their extreme such conditions lead to depression and a feeling that life has no meaning. For many it is experienced as a loss of voice.
Agents of social change sometimes say they are functioning as a voice for those who have no voice. Others speak of an inner voice, sometimes defined as conscience, discernment, or calling. Those of us with five decades or so of living will remember the famous trademark that depicted the dog Nipper looking into a gramaphone and hearing the voice of his deceased master. The trademark then took on the caption "His Master's Voice" and became the identifiable image of RCA for many years. Voice transcended death and its sting.
Finding one's voice isn't easy. It requires self awareness and transparency. It can be kind of scary, but it can also be exhilarating. I think I've found mine on occasion, but too often it eludes me and begins to sound like laryngitis.
Hillary Clinton's statement was inspiring to me. I hope she is successful in finding and using that voice.
And maybe I'll clear my throat and give it a whirl myself.
