A soapbox gives you an elevated platform from which to pronounce your thoughts and opinions. It can be a somewhat useful tool for having your voice heard by those in your immediate vicinity. And if what you have to say seems interesting, helpful or in some way remarkable to those who hear, they may even share it with a friend. Yes, word of mouth is a powerful way to spread message.

If you've stood up on your soapbox, you'll be well aware that the feedback is not always positive. Naysayers and critics looking to tear you down and to turn the crowd against you are never far away. They too can use word of mouth in a powerful way, but not for good.

There comes a time when you decide that your voice has outgrown the soapbox. You have finished your training and learned the lessons from the school of hard knocks. The hour has arrived where you must rise up and ascend to a more powerful platform, with far greater reach... where the risks are greater, but so are the rewards. That platform is steemit.

My moment has arrived. Farewell soapbox. You served me well. I must now take my place on the steembox.