As I get older, I find that what I admire and value has changed. There was a time when I would not even think about exposing my weaknesses to anyone, as that might mean risking looking bad, incapable, or even appearing as a failure. As I age, I see life through a different lens. The challenges of life have humbled me, stretched me, and showed me that I'm not an island, nor will I ever be the picture of perfection to anyone. In fact, I would argue that those who choose to be vulnerable and transparent to those they love and trust, end up being the far more admirable, courageous, and strong ones.
When my precious friends sit with me and share their deepest secrets, innermost sorrows, and hidden fragile pieces, my instant reaction is deep compassion, and fierce pride. Pride for the courage it takes to be real; when it could mean rejection. Pride for choosing the path less traveled, and great compassion for the pain they are working through. It takes my breath away; the beauty that I see in the raw vulnerability of a human being. The underbelly of a person that society would choose to turn their backs on is, in fact, a gift to humankind. It reminds us that we are all flawed, broken, and on a great transformative journey. It beckons us to walk this magnificent road together.
Sometimes, I'm the one one that needs compassion and covering. If I have looked down on someone's vulnerable moments and sneered at their weaknesses, I can only expect the same in return. How I treat the least of these in my life, shows who I really am deep down inside. So, I must clothe myself in vulnerability. I must wear it like a crown; like the masterpiece that it is. It draws out the best in the people around me, keeps my heart soft, and makes me the woman I really want to be.
Thank you, to all the powerful people out there who have mentored this in me through choosing to welcome me into your vulnerable moments. By doing that, you have given me a gift far greater than money could ever buy.
