Vulnerability

April 12, 2021

Reflection: Vulnerability offers connection, and relief.

Today, I’m grateful for: safe platforms for vulnerability.

Challenge: Find your safe space.

Whether we know it or not, I believe the need to be vulnerable is a characteristic inherent to our nature. It’s part of who we are and how we connect as humans. But somewhere along the way, we were conditioned to feel like we have to tough it out, to muscle through our suffering, to suppress our own emotions and fears in order to minimize any discomfort they might cause others. But why?

What is so wrong with being vulnerable? Do we avoid it in fear of appearing weak? Volatile? Incapable? Why is it that we feel the need to be always-on, all the time? And at what point were we conditioned to think showing and sharing our emotions was not OK?

Regardless of the why or the how, I know I struggle to let others in. To show my cards. To admit when I’m not OK, or ask for help. I’m honestly not even sure I know how to ask for help?...but these new circumstances are forcing me to let go of whatever expectations I’ve set for myself (still a work in progress). To let go of the face of bravery and fearlessness that society expects us to wear (or so it seems, anyway). To be OK with not being OK, and sit with that, for a long, hard while.

It’s uncomfortable. It’s messy. And I hate it. But this is my new normal, and I’m working on it. Today, I’m grateful for friends and platforms that create a safe space for vulnerability. It’s not easy, but it’s these spaces like that take the discomfort of it all and make it just a little less painful.

XO

SS