Originally published in LLL US Western Division’s Connections #68, November/December 1996
I had a bad cold last spring. And after about a week of coughing, sneezing, and general malaise, my voice finally just gave out one morning. After a few hoarse whispers indicating my condition to my husband and sons, I realized that things were going to be a lot different around here for a while.
After a day of adjustment to my laryngitis, people soon learned not to ask me anything. I couldn’t talk on the phone, so my sons did the talking for me. I couldn’t contact my husband at work, so I left notes in his lunch pail about noontime errands and appointments. I couldn’t yell down into the basement or call up to the upstairs bedrooms, so I had to do a lot more mothering on foot. My husband didn’t ask what I had done during the day. I couldn’t comment to the kids about television programs or events in the newspaper, and they didn’t ask for my help on school projects. My hairdresser did all the talking at my appointment. I avoided the neighbors and dreaded m y trips to the grocery store because I couldn’t chat with the friendly checkout ladies. Without a voice, I began to feel like I wasn’t there.
Communication within La Leche League is crucial. Leaders feel included and valued when there is an atmosphere of appreciation for the diverse voices within our organization. Each Leader has a voice, whether it is through her meeting evaluations, the Area Leaders’ Letter, LEAVEN, NEW BEGINNINGS, or Connections. The more you communicate, the more there you will feel.
I hope you will consider writing something for one of La Leche League’s publications. Across the great distances within the US Western Division and throughout the world, La Leche League publications are a way for you to be heard loud and clear. And, yes, now that my voice is back, I relish every communicating opportunity. I am here, after all.
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