Controversial? Why Not?

In the 21st century, being 'controversial' is something that most people don't want to be referred to as. Why? It's my opinion that most people are afraid. We've all become afraid to speak out and be seen as the odd one out. Maybe you could just blame the changing of times, but I think that you HAVE to be controversial in order to be heard and to make your point heard. It helps anyways.

If you think that the war in Iraq is a terrible thing, then say it. If you think that the United States is full of hypocrisy and greed, then say it. Now, don't take these as my opinion because they're just examples, but I want to show you what I mean.

You might find 'gay' people to be disgusting. Well, go right ahead and say it. Say whatever you want about anyone or anything! (Just don't say bomb in the airport or yell that you have a gun in a police station.) As long as it's not illegal, (as in the former sentence) it can and should be said if that's what you believe.

When people voice out their opinions, they can make a huge difference. Not everyone is going to agree with your words or support them, of course, but that doesn't mean that you should fail to speak them. It's better to voice out your thoughts than to keep them away from the public eye.

The more people fail to speak out and be controversial, the more we indulge ourselves into tyranny. After that certain, undetermined line, some institution (the government maybe?) could step in and undermine the First Amendment. Actually, this could happen in any country, in case you were wondering.

So, when's the right time to speak out? Every moment possible when you have something genuine to say. If you believe it, then say it. It shouldn't matter if it'll draw criticism or crude remarks. It should matter that you've said something that you truly believe. Controversy isn't a negative thing because it's daring to be different from the majority. Try it out sometime and you'll know what I mean.