mean what you say and say what you mean

R. Yose says that the Shema must be said audibly, and the Gemara asks why...and then answers that it is because the Shema says "Hear" and therefore it must be heard....and then the discussion continues whether or not one who says an inaudible Shema has fulfilled his obligation.

But to me, the question is on a deeper level. If we say something "to ourselves" are we really saying it at all? And if we say something as important as the Shema "inaudibly" and therefore "to ourselves" are we properly making a declaration of faith? And if we have the freedom, the luxury, the pleasure, of being able to loudly proclaim our Shema out loud, are we not giving up that freedom if we don't "say it loud, say it proud"?

And perhaps this theory continues to other things as well. How many of us have made "new year's resolutions" that we haven't really shared with anyone....and then really haven't kept them? Or begun a new diet but quietly, without sharing it with anyone....how long did it really last? There's something to be said for soliciting moral support, for sharing good or bad news, for being a part of a community that shares your ideals and beliefs....much like saying the Pledge of Allegiance or singing the National Anthem at a baseball game, perhaps saying the Shema is like making our public and communal statement....