“To share your weakness is to make yourself vulnerable; to make yourself vulnerable is to show your strength.”
It takes courage to speak from the heart, sharing the most honest expression in pure, raw form. It takes confidence - a knowing that the emotions felt are true and sincere. It takes love of one's self and those around. It takes a strong commitment to greatness and the achievement of all things deserved.
“Vulnerability is the only authentic state. Being vulnerable means being open, for wounding, but also for pleasure. Being open to the wounds of life means also being open to the bounty and beauty. Don’t mask or deny your vulnerability; it is your greatest asset."
It doesn't come easy, this act of full exposure. Some feel weak. Some feel unprotected. The receiver's reaction, never guaranteed. But it is a gift to be vulnerable - a gift to yourself and a gift to others. It has the power to elevate, to soothe the heart, feed the soul and create tremendous bonds.
“When we were children, we used to think that when we were grown-up we would no longer be vulnerable. But to grow up is to accept vulnerability...To be alive is to be vulnerable.”
What's the alternative? To be closed off? To lack emotion and feeling? To walk around disconnected? To be stingy with praise and love? To live in solitude? To miss out on intimate connection? To experience only a portion of what life has to offer?
I choose vulnerability - the sharing of my authentic self without hesitation. I've seen the possibilities it creates, the smiles it receives, the strength it cultivates, and the fulfillment it provides.
