Vulnerability: The practice of being seen.

So many people see this as black and white. Either you are closed up like a little box or you are totally out there, loving life and taking risks. Let’s view vulnerability as a skill. There are parts of us that we are shamelessly ourselves and parts of us that are terrified to show emotion or be in an uncomfortable situation. You all have the ability to be vulnerable, because it’s already present in some aspect of your life. Think about something that you’re really good at. You probably have a lot of confidence in that because you’ve done it so much. Now think about something that you’re not good at but want to be. What feelings surface? Vulnerability becomes work when the outcome is uncertain. To practice vulnerability we must put ourselves in uncomfortable situations. Or at least not avoid them. Think about a few situations where you can practice this. Allow yourself to practice being seen.

“Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we’ll ever do.” – Brene Brown

“There can be no vulnerability without risk; there can be no community without vulnerability; there can be no peace, and ultimately no life, without community.” — M. Scott Peck

“I do not believe that sheer suffering teaches. If suffering alone taught, all the world would be wise, since everyone suffers. To suffering must be added mourning, understanding, patience, love, openness and the willingness to remain vulnerable.” — Joseph Addison