Beauty in Vulnerability.

I was thinking about what to write about, and instead of sharing my struggles right now, I am going to share my thoughts on vulnerability itself.  In a later post I will talk candidly about my food addiction, therapy, and addiction transfer (which I am learning plenty about with my wonderful assigned physcologist).

If you get a chance, please read this previous blog entry, before continuing.  Also, if you get a chance, watch the 20 minute video I posted.  It is so very good.

I love that I have learned that life is about connection.  Connection with other people brings me so much joy.  I believe God gave us relationship to fulfill us.  He also would like, more than anything, a connection or relationship with us.

How does vulnerability come into play?

Connection is near impossible without vulnerability of some kind. 

I think of the speakers that I strongly admire.  People that fall into that category are the likes of Joyce Meyer, Beth Moore, Lisa Bevere, Jesse Duplantis, Kenneth Copeland, and more.  All of which have told their stories loud and strong.  They could have kept it to themselves, but chose to be vulnerable (together with perseverance and obedience); therefore powerful ministries have come forth.

With vulnerability comes fear.  Maybe shame.  We don’t want to be vulnerable for fear of disconnect.  People may judge.  And that is the truth.  People will judge.  There will be a number of people that may turn from you.  They may not understand. 

BUT!!  There will be several people that CONNECT and will have needed to know about what you are going through, perhaps facing the same struggles you have.  They will learn that you in fact DON’T have it all together.  Perhaps it will give them hope.  Through this will come meaningful and fulfilling relationship. 

In the video in my previous post about vulnerability, the speaker called people who are ok with being vulnerable “ whole hearted”.  She talks about the 3 C’s. 

Courage:  To be imperfect.

Compassion:  Being kind to self then others.

Connection:  A result of authenticity.

Vulnerability is the core of shame, fear, and struggle for worthiness.  It is also the birthplace for connection, joy, creativity, belonging and love.

We are living in a society where social media is giving us a sense of false emotion.  And instead of feeling real feelings we are numbing ourselves with addiction:  Food, alcohol, drugs (even prescription), sex, money, fantasy, video games, facebook, etc.  In doing this we are also numbing true joy, gratitude, happiness, etc.

Let yourself be deeply seen.  Embrace vulnerability!!

(I would just like to go on record and say that there is a time and a place for vulnerability.  Not all things should be shared publicly.  Find a safe place for things that need to be said that may hurt yourself or other people.  Vulnerability is also not an excuse for self pity.)