Embracing Vulnerability: A Path to Self-Discovery
Vulnerability can be a scary word, but it is also a powerful one. It is a theme that is being explored this month at Concordia Center for Spiritual Living. Vulnerability is as Brene Brown said, "is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change."
Yet many of us struggle with embracing our own creativity because message we often receive young age that vulnerability is a form of weakness. We learn to bottle up our emotions and put on a brave face even when things are tough. However, embracing vulnerability allows us to connect with our true selves, tap into our creative abilities, and lead a more fulfilling life.
Alexis always struggled with vulnerability. Despite her passion for the performing arts and desire to be on stage, she had never pursued it because she was too afraid of what others might think of her. She was involved in her local community theater, but always, behind the scences, when she really wanted to perform in the spotlight. Everyone else was experience and so good. What would they think of her?
One day, she decided to take a chance and enrolled in an improv class. This was something completely out of her comfort zone, and she knew it was a step towards embracing vulnerability. The first few classes were nerve-wracking - she was a mess! Alexis felt exposed and vulnerable, especially when it was her turn to perform in front of the group.
But as the weeks went by, she began to notice a shift in herself. She was more open and honest in her interactions with others, and she was more comfortable expressing herself creatively. One day, during a particularly emotional scene, Lily found herself breaking down in tears in front of the class.
It was an incredibly vulnerable moment, but instead of feeling ashamed, she felt liberated. It was the first time in her life, she realized that vulnerability was not a weakness but a strength. Through her willingness to be fully seen, it allowed her to connect with others on a deeper level and tap into her true self.
After that experience, Alexis began to take more risks in her life. She started to pursue her passion for the stage and began to look for other opportunities to audition and perform. She found that the more vulnerable she was, the more fulfilled her life became. And although it wasn't always easy, she knew that it was worth it because she gave herself the space to be herself.
The Journey Starts With Small Steps
By leaning into vulnerability and exploring the emotions that come with it, we can better understand ourselves and our desires. To cultivate vulnerability in your daily life, start by taking small steps. Share something personal with a friend or loved one, or try something new that makes you feel a little uncomfortable.
Remember, vulnerability is a journey, not a destination. As you continue to embrace vulnerability, trust in the power of self-discovery. It will lead us to play more fully the role that is uniquely ours to play in our life. As Brene Brown says, "Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it's having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome."
Journaling Questions:
What situations have made you feel vulnerable in the past? How did you respond?
How can vulnerability help you better understand yourself and your emotions?
What small steps can you take to embrace vulnerability in your daily life?
Affirmation: I trust in the power of vulnerability to help me step out on the stage of my life in a freer, fuller way.