Vulnerability continued...

I am learning more and more about stepping out in vulnerability since my declaration to "Be Brave" this year. God has given me a glimpse of what this looks like - and I've only just scratched the surface.

Last week at my women's Bible study I was vulnerable when I shared a prayer request for myself that I've never really shared with anyone. And I didn't even give the back story. One day I hope to share that, too.

I've invited women I've never met before to my house for dinner. The Nourish group is going great. I am so excited to host for the third time at the beginning of May. These women have been so brave to show up and meet each other. I'm so proud of them.

I have stepped out and talked to parents at Amelia Jayne's school and just chatted about life while our kids run around together outside.

I have been brave at work, trying some things that we've never tried before and persevering even when it was hard.

I've been brave by starting my own business. Want to know more about it? I'd love to share it with you!

David and I have done Whole30 in April. Today is day 25. I could write a whole series of posts on this, and perhaps I will, but it has been an amazing experience. If doing Whole30 doesn't take courage, I don't know what does!

David and I have grown closer as we continue to look for a church - and we've been vulnerable with each other, sharing things that we love about church and the things that we really hate about it. I think I'm most proud of this and so joyful to see the closeness between my husband and I through this whole process. Anything that allows me to know my husband better is a good thing.

I have opened up to both my mom and my husband about some things in my life that are hurting me and things that have hindered my growth in relationships and for myself.

And I've been honest. I've been honest to God, to my husband, to my family, and to myself.  More than ever before.

And these things are beautiful.

The Power of Vulnerability

Take a moment (or 20) to watch this TED talk. Brene Brown gets it, and thankfully shares it with us.

Brene Brown could be my soul sister. (Actually she seems a little bit like my real sister.)
Fully embracing vulnerability is hard and I'm so glad she shared what she's learned.

Check out these points that she makes:
We must have -
Courage to be imperfect
Compassion to be kind to ourselves and others
Connection as result of authenticity

Fully embrace vulnerability
Stop controlling and predicting

Vulnerability is the birthplace of joy, connectivity, belonging and love

The power of vulnerability - and being connected to one another - is a mighty thing.
But don't forget that it all boils down to love.