I can hold space for people who think I'm a nut job. It's cool.

"I can hold space for people who think I'm a nut job. It's cool. But I know from my own experience what I experienced. I know what I learned. I know what I saw. I know what I heard." These words from Julia Butterfly Hill embody a spirit of self-assurance, integrity, and inner knowing. Hill, who famously spent over two years living in a redwood tree to protect it from being cut down, reflects the courage of standing firm in one's own truth, even in the face of skepticism and ridicule. Her statement is a declaration that experience—what one has lived, witnessed, and understood—is a deeply personal and powerful force, one that does not require the validation of others. It speaks to the quiet strength found in knowing oneself and the ability to stand by that knowledge regardless of the judgments of the world.

In the ancient world, such steadfastness in one’s beliefs was revered as the highest form of wisdom. Socrates, the great Greek philosopher, famously declared, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” For Socrates, the pursuit of truth through self-examination and experience was the only path to true understanding. He valued knowledge gained through lived experience over abstract theories or the opinions of others. Similarly, Hill’s words reflect a commitment to personal experience as a source of truth. In a world often filled with doubt and external influence, she asserts that the truth one gains through their own lived experiences is a foundation that cannot be easily shaken.

Consider, too, the ancient Stoic philosophers, such as Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, who taught the importance of grounding oneself in internal wisdom. The Stoics believed that while the opinions of others and the forces of fate were beyond our control, the knowledge of oneself was the only thing that remained steadfast. Epictetus, who was born a slave, famously said, “It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” Hill’s confidence in her own experiences aligns with the Stoic ideal of inner strength—the ability to trust one's own understanding, regardless of external judgments. She knows what she has experienced, and that knowing gives her the ability to stand firm in the face of criticism.

In a more modern context, Mahatma Gandhi also offers a powerful example of holding space for one’s truth despite public perception. Gandhi, throughout his life, faced harsh criticism and ridicule for his nonviolent resistance to British rule in India. Yet, he remained steadfast in his beliefs, often saying, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Gandhi’s confidence in his path was rooted in his deep conviction—he did not need others to understand or accept his actions because he knew, in his heart, what was right. Just as Hill holds space for those who question her, Gandhi stood firm in his conviction, understanding that truth does not always align with public opinion.

The story of Joan of Arc offers yet another illustration of the courage to stand by one’s truth. At a young age, Joan heard voices and felt divinely guided to lead the French army against the English. Her mission was met with skepticism, even ridicule, from many, yet she remained resolute, declaring that she knew what she had experienced and heard, just as Hill confidently expresses. Joan’s faith in her divine calling led her to victory on the battlefield, but her ultimate sacrifice was made in the belief that she was following a higher truth—one that was unshaken by the doubts of others. Like Joan, Hill knows the power of conviction rooted in one’s own experiences, and the strength to continue moving forward despite external opposition.

The lesson to be learned from Julia Butterfly Hill and these ancient figures is one of integrity and self-trust. In a world filled with noise, confusion, and judgment, there is immense power in standing firm in one’s own truth—to embrace and honor the experiences that have shaped you. Others may question, misunderstand, or criticize, but when you are grounded in your own knowing, you cannot be easily swayed. This inner strength allows for personal growth and action that is not dependent on others’ approval but is guided by a higher sense of purpose.

In practical terms, we must trust ourselves and honor the experiences that have shaped us. While it is important to listen to the perspectives of others, we must also hold space for our own knowing, our own truth, and our own growth. As Hill demonstrates, we are not beholden to the judgment of others when we are confident in our own experiences. We must learn to listen to the wisdom within, to act from a place of personal integrity, and to embrace the challenges and opportunities life presents us, knowing that each step is a part of our journey toward a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Stand firm in your truth, for it is the only compass that will guide you through the uncertain seas of life.