1 Life Lesson I'll Never Forget

20 years ago, I was working on a feature film, and learned a life lesson I'll never forget.

In 2002, I was casting associate on In Her Shoes starring Cameron Diaz, and was in the audition room to run camera as well as take notes after that day's session. When the last actor of the day left, the three creatives (director Curtis Hanson, producer Carol Fenelon, and casting director David Rubin) began to discuss, make decisions, and clarify creative vision. As always, I was taking the information down and the process in, quiet and observant.

Then, after all opinions were stated and I began to pack up to leave, Curtis looked up at me and said, "We haven't heard from you yet, Erica."

I took a deep breath.

I wasn't prepared to speak, so I condensed all of the highlights of their discussion into what I thought were the clearest decisions and ways to move forward. I summarized the last hour in a minute. Then Curtis said words I'll never forget.

"Yes, let's do that...well put."

In this moment, I realized that I had a voice. That my opinions and my ability synthesize information was valued...and that my voice is part of my artistic expression. I had thought that the conclusions I came to that day were obvious, but I learned that obvious to me may be worthwhile to others.

I will never forget that invitation to share my thoughts.

Your voice matters.