On Vulnerability (Or Why People are Awesome)

So, just a few weeks ago, I posted a blog that was hard for me to write. It was the saga of a skin issue that, as of today, is still not resolved. It took a lot of courage for me to post that blog, because I knew it would draw attention to me and my skin issues (plus, I felt a little strange talking about it).  What I have learned since then, though, is that vulnerability is what opens us up to really knowing the people in our lives and being known by them.

After posting that blog, I immediately received emails, comments, texts and facebook updates of encouragement, of love and, most importantly, reminding me that it didn’t really matter all that much (in the best way possible). My friends showered me with affirmation, love and compassion, never belittling my frustrations, but reminding me that they are not what people first see when they look at me. My friends saw through the pain of my words and reached into my heart, reminding me that they love me because of the person I am on the inside, not whatever craziness is happening on the outside.

Here’s what else I learned:

• Vulnerability reminds me that we’re not alone in the world
• Vulnerability reminds me that we’re not meant to struggle through anything by ourselves
• Vulnerability reminds me that I’m not in charge
• Vulnerability reminds me that I’m human; imperfect, impractical, human
• Vulnerability reminds me that I’m not the one in charge of my story

And, here’s the big one for me:

Vulnerability reminds me that I have to trust the people in my life to love me despite my flaws, to encourage me in my moments of frustration, sadness and doubt, and to see beyond the things I obsess over to who I really am.

Let me say that again:

Vulnerability reminds me that I have to trust the people in my life to love me despite my flaws, to encourage me in my moments of frustration, sadness and doubt, and to see beyond the things I obsess over to who I really am.

I wonder how many times that will have to go through my brain before it sticks? Probably at least 1,000 more times…this week.

So, if you’re one of the wonderful people who has prayed for me, who has sent me messages, who has just been a constant source of encouragement and love throughout this ordeal, thank you. I love you and I am forever grateful for you. Thank you for treating my vulnerable heart so well. I’m a lucky, lucky woman.