Lifting the veil on vulnerability

Sometimes, we can place a high value on how we are presenting ourselves on the outside, yet neglect what is so very important on the inside. We can, in the absence of awareness, cloak our truest selves to the world. Is this how we are supposed to function?

I can reflect on a time where I would pay more attention to the world’s expectations than my inner soul. And, I can say without reservation – that caught up with me. Thus, I’ve had to grieve not being the person I was called to be in order to please those around me or circumvent rebuke.

As I began to explore my inner self, my desire for authenticity has become stronger and stronger. I still feel the current pulling me into the space of personal reflection. I feel God stirring in my heart and mind, and I know He is still doing a work in me.

I have been so fortunate over the past several years to have some incredibly deep and authentic conversations with friends in the faith that have spoken real truth about life – their life, my life, and about humanity as a whole. While we have celebrated all the goodness that life has brought, I am more certain than ever that the most poignant growth I’ve experienced has come from the sharing of hurts, disappointments, and struggles.

In short, we lifted the veil on vulnerability – and something beautiful has happened in those moments. We really see each other, not for how we want to be seen, but for who we really are. Beauty marks, scars, and all. These moments of connection have been such a balm to the soul and I feel God personified in these interactions.

This week, we will recognize the day of Ascension, the 40^th day of Easter when Jesus left His earthly home and was reunited with our Heavenly Father. When He departed, He left us with the gift of the Holy Spirit and other believers to share the Good News (Acts 1: 6-11).

As we work to grow in our faith and more fully embrace who God has called us to be, we have direct access through prayer to God and a daily relationship with the Holy Spirit for wisdom and guidance. And, we have one another as encouragement in our walk.

I believe that in our life on earth, sometimes we will most fully understand who God is when we see His face in another human’s love and kindness. When someone hears our story and truly listens to what we share, we can feel so seen and so valued – just as God would intend for us.

If having vulnerable conversations with others feels intimidating, please know I understand and I’ve felt the same. I would invite you to find one person this year that you believe is emotionally safe, validating, and trustworthy (perhaps a counselor, pastor, or friend) and begin sharing a little of your life story. Whether deep hurts or lesser wounds, bringing these pieces of ourselves into the light can bring wholeness and healing that is just a glimpse of what we may experience in eternity.

I also believe who we entrust with our stories matters greatly. Discernment is vital to ensure our vulnerabilities are handled with loving care.

If you would like additional resources as you begin or expand this journey, two podcasts designed to help us more fully know ourselves and others include: The Best of You and Being Known. I am grateful when I’m pointed to great resources that help me grow in my own walk with God and myself. I hope this, in turn, helps me to be more supportive to those around me.

It is my prayer that in the months ahead you may be able to let you guard down on one wall that’s been established in your heart. What’s holding you back from an authentic life? Shame, guilt, or fear of judgment? Bring these to God, and perhaps consider asking for His loving presence to envelop you and wisdom to guide you to a person or people who can help you shine as your whole self.