Recently, Brian Rose of London Real interviewed David Icke. They discussed many topics and themes regarding personal empowerment and maintaining autonomy in a culture and world that often tries to silence the individual–the creative thinker who refuses to conform.

In this excerpt, Mr. Icke talks about insisting on self-expression even when the herd rejects it and tries to dim the creative’s personal light.

“Don’t be intimidated into silence. If you silence yourself, eventually everything goes silent. When people are telling you what you can’t say, say it louder; say it more often. If people don’t like [what you are saying], find another circle of friends then, because you will find them if you’re looking for them.”

Even though they are still young, I’m sharing these insights with my children and explaining that I welcome and support their self-expression. Whatever they are feeling or need to say, I want to hear.

My 6-year-old son and I were listening to this podcast together and we talked about how it feels to be “intimidated into silence.” He gets it. He’s been there. He’s already brave and outspoken. By talking about these experiences and validating a child’s need to emote and express himself, we can begin to make real change.

Our responsibility is to encourage children to find friends and grown-ups who will listen to them—who will allow them to be who they are in the world.