Sometimes, we’re reticent to share our truths, because we fear people will judge us, ignore us, or even laugh. But if we keep our story bottled up—our voice clipped—we can’t move forward; we can’t heal. Even if we have supportive friends and family, certain emotions and experiences feel off limits. How do we bring up childhood trauma, suicide ideation, profound dissatisfaction with work or relationships, bottomless grief, gender dysphoria, or debilitating doubt and fear? Even “ordinary” insecurities, embarrassments, and anxieties can feel too big to share. We assume everyone else has their shit together and we’re the only one who’s struggling. Of course, that’s not true—everyone experiences the harshness and beauty of life—but it stops us from being real; from sharing our vulnerabilities.
This post invites two things:
Share openly. I remember my first blog posts, where I shared about anxiety, comparing-mind, and body-image issues. I was terrified when I hit “post,” yet I was also liberated. Since then, I’ve shared copious imperfections and vulnerabilities; mistakes and lessons learned. I’ve also held back: some stories are not for public consumption. Still, I try to model being real, both in-person and online. If my words are real, kind, and potentially helpful, then I share, even if it opens me to judgment or criticism. When my intentions are true, my words are often met with support and gratitude. It’s brave to bare ourselves, and this bravery inspires others.
Share anonymously. The first step is to begin. Sharing our story anonymously provides a beginning. To help with this first step, I created a page on my website where you can write from your heart; you can share your deep truths and secrets; you can be heard by someone who cares—me! And the whole thing is anonymous. I only receive your words, no other information. It’s a way to bare your heart without consequences, and I will read every word. That said, if you’re really hurting, I hope you go beyond this first step and reach out to someone: a therapist, friend, neighbor, family member, or me. You are worthy of being seen and heard.
If you choose path 1, please post in the comments (I’ll start!). If you choose path 2,
share your story anonymously.
We’re connected by our stories. They remind us of our humanness. They remind us of our resilience. They remind us that we’re all worthy, lovable, imperfect, complicated, awesome, and beautiful.
