We Cannot Care if You Refuse to Share. Speak Up.

We+Cannot+Care+if+You+Refuse+to+Share.+Speak+Up.

The Pharcyde

In the past, people have willingly offered their two cents. In times of crises, the dynamic shifted, and those who care began to beg, “a penny for your thoughts.” Again, the public often responded. Overwhelmingly. 

Now? We are in an Editorial Depression. Why? We may well be in one of the most confrontational moments in our nation’s history, and very few people want to share their views given the tense political climate we are in. But climate change exists, so let’s embrace it. Let’s change things, own our thoughts, voice our convictions, accept the responsibilities that come with having a functional mind. The Pharcyde knows that you all–students, teachers, coaches, parents, administrators– care deeply about the happenings of the School, the state of our community, and the well-being of each of its members. 

For anyone who is not aware of what an editorial is, here’s the run-down: an editorial is written by the editorial board to express the opinions and majority viewpoint of the staff. Our editorial board is supposed to be the medium through which each and every one of you can have your voice be heard.But if no one comes to us with any concerns or opinions, how can we convey your concerns to the decision-makers in the School?

If it is fear of speaking out that is causing such disinterest, we remind you of that other Great Depression our country once went through and champion the words of Roosevelt: “We have nothing to fear, but fear itself!” The fears that your speaking out will cause repercussions in class is terribly unfortunate; The Pharcyde has heard of such instances. In interviewing students for editorials, we are often asked to provide anonymity because sources fear their opinions will be met not with civil disagreement but with retaliation. We believe that such fears are unnecessary; no person, no Benjamin Buccaneer would negatively react to your attempt at making our community better. 

We will only remain second to none as long as we foster stable relationships: faculty-student, administration-faculty, student-administration, peer-peer, individual-whole. But what is a stable relationship if not one wherein both parties feel encouraged, valued, and comfortable to publicly voice their opinions? The Benjamin School prides itself on being a community of strong, positive, and stable relationships. All of us can and need to work together to continue to foster these connections. We can always do better. 

But what can people do if the feedback is heading towards–and not from– them? Should they seek to silence the source? To ignore the message? To uncover the secrets of the universe from a single grain of rice? To respond to a critique or a perspective with immediate negativity? 

They should try some thoughtful introspection.

One can dislike a novel, yet celebrate its author; a student might not like The Metamorphosis, but they can still love the teacher who put it into the curriculum. One can yell hard at their TV during Monday night football yet cheer just as hard after the commercial break; a coach can passionately critique a player for a misrun route, yet still allow the player to redeem himself on the next drive, not from the bench. One can voice their displeasure of someone rocking one of Kylie’s swimsuits on Instagram, yet like the same bikini when another person dons it in a Tik-Tok; a sophomore can point out when her best friend’s skirt is too short and still laugh together at the same picnic table during lunch. We can be critical and still be friends. 

Based on a recent article in Inc., there are a multitude of important reasons that students should feel inspired to voice their concerns about certain school topics.

One. A student who voices their opinions appears much more confident. The more you express your opinion in the classroom or to the School, the more confidence you will have in yourself. This will translate to your career and the way you carry yourself. Trust your mind.

Two. Your voice could be the proponent for change. You never know when someone might be listening. Wouldn’t it be amazing if you are the reason the Benjamin community faces improvement?

Three. You can light a flame. If you come to The Pharcyde with your concerns, you will spark discussion among the decision makers at the School. Despite contrary beliefs, they listen to you.

Four. Do you fear being wrong or corrected? That’s only natural. But understanding different perspectives is a good thing! It’s okay to be wrong; being wrong helps you learn. The whole situation will become a real learning experience.

Five. If you think that you will be alone in your opinion or beliefs, that is most likely not true. You could be the voice of the majority of the student body, but you won’t find out until you express your thoughts! Others might be intimidated and will not speak their mind, but you could be the stepping stone for the betterment of the Benjamin community and your peers will thank you. 

Six. Worst-case scenarios often cause anxiety to which you may not want to share your thoughts on certain issues, but we The Pharcyde promise you the risk runs low. Our administration likes to hear feedback, and they will be responsive. We want to be the medium for your views!

Seven. It is always better to think prospectively than retrospectively. You more likely than not will regret inaction more than you regret taking action. So speak up! 

We at The Pharcyde want to listen, we want to convey your voice, and we want to inspire our community’s betterment. We are not just like you, WE ARE YOU.