Her voice is the first you hear as you enter into this world. Her crooning lullaby, lulls your fears as you slip into angelic dreams, her voice filled with laughter, brings the first smile to your lips, her voice stills your restlessness, erases all discomfort, as you settle down to rest. Yet you hear her voice crying in a wilderness of pain as she seeks relief, in her affliction.
Her voice I hear, as a sister to her siblings, considerate and kind hearted. Her voice I hear, as a lover, warm and tender, her voice I hear as a friend, solicitous and ready to lend a hand, her voice I hear as a pleasing member of the community , quick to serve others. Then I hear her voice, weeping in despair, as she drowns in oppression.
Her voice I hear as a doctor, a nurse tending to the sick, her voice I hear powerful, controlling million dollar enterprises , her voice I hear melodious and mellifluous, singing, entertaining audiences across the world, her voice I hear strong and fearless, advocating the law, fighting for equality and then I hear her voice weak and timid as she struggles against her discrimination.
Her voice I hear calling out for love, raised against tyranny and despotism, against abuse and persecution, her voice just a whimper, straining to be heard above the suppression.I hear her vulnerable voice , seeking retribution against atrocities committed, fighting for her unfortunate sisters, abused ,cast aside, her fading voice whispering, keeping alive the memories of those trampled to the ground .
So when will we hear that voice, when will we see the struggle cease ? When will we save our girls, who have lost their voice ? When will we see the dawn of a new day and hear that voice, above a whisper ? For until then, we are all in the same oppressive darkness, we will all remain unheard. Let’s make a start to right the wrong of age old beliefs and customs, let’s strive to hear the weaker, neglected voice .
Mary Jacob 