Kaleb in Afton, Wyoming - "Fish on" buddy :) ...Vulnerability -
When was the last time you let yourself be vulnerable? Has it been a while?
I continue to learn that the more we put ourselves ‘out there’ the more we learn, the more we grow and the more we become.
What does ‘out there’ mean?
I’ll illustrate my point with my son, Kaleb. He decided he wanted to try wrestling at his middle school. He is in the 7th grade and was introduced to wrestling during P.E. class. He liked it and decided to join the wrestling team. We didn’t know anything about wrestling and let’s just say it’s been a very educational season!
The night before his first match, he came downstairs in his singlet. Have you ever tried one of those things on? Me neither. Let’s just say – I think anyone who dares to don one of those outfits has guts! And no doubt you feel a little vulnerable wearing one.
Kaleb has his last wrestling meet today and as I sit here thinking about him and the past wrestling season, I find myself smiling and feeling really proud of him (singlet and all). He definitely put himself ‘out there’ and has learned a great deal, met new friends, had fun and realized that he can do hard things (like be pinned in 25 seconds) in front of a crowd and still hold his head high.
Thanks for reminding me Kaleb that vulnerability coupled with our desire to learn, grow and become happens as we step out of our comfort zones and try new things – yes, even scary things … like wearing a singlet and standing toe to toe on a mat ready for 3 rounds of whatever throws, slaps and toss downs come your way.
This week – put yourself ‘out there’ … allow yourself to feel vulnerable and see what adventures lie ahead.
Some ‘out there’ ideas: Forgive, Write an apology letter, read the first page of your book out loud to someone, sing in public, dance, ask questions, don’t be afraid to say I don’t know, learn about something new, join a gym, start a new job, pray, turn off the TV, do something alone, refuse to be dragged down by negative people, take a trip …
3 comments:
Love it. So true! Of course, with putting yourself out there you have to realize failures and embarrassments will happen, but where do all the good stories in life come from? One of my favorite quotes came from a 300 yr old vampire in Moonlight, the TV series: "But this is so awkward. I love awkward." Don't we all--at some later date if not in the moment?
Love this post Wend. It was a delight to spend a little time with you this last weekend. I wish I could have been there for Kaleb's last meet.
I love this. Thank you.
Post a Comment