b'expert Theresa OKeefe emphasizes the role thatwell have already been asleep by the time I had my adults in the community can play. The maturingaha! momentbut the act of speaking (even if adolescent needs some listening adult [othernot totally being heard) was powerful for me. than parents] with whom they can try out anIts no surprise that speakingaccessing some idea and see how it sounds in the world.deep part of ourselves, then translating those The notion of trying out an ideaor as I like tonearly ineffable feelings, memories, thoughts, or say, trying it on for size, seeing how and if it fits moods into words, and then sharing those words is one of the most profound powers of speaking.with the worldis so daunting and difficult.Like a sacrament, it can be efficacious: it bringsIts also no surprise that opportunities forabout what it signifies. The ability to hear in onesand invitations to speak from the deep wellown voice a reality, a deeply felt need or urge orof ones heart are so important for the health wound or joy, suddenly makes that thing vivid andof both individuals and communities alike.npresent. I remember as a middle-school girl finallyEllen B. Koneck is the acquisitions, sales and marketing stumbling upon some frustration or hurt whilemanager at Anselm Academic in Minneapolis, Minn. processing the days events with my twin sisterShe previously worked at Commonweal magazine and from the top bunk of our bunkbeds. She may verytaught at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Conn.REFLECTION 41'