The Process of Being Known

I think we all have this desire to be known. Whether it's by friends, family, or significant others. It's something innate within us to have a connection with others. It's a beautiful thing when it does happen. That someone knows the intricate parts of your heart and doesn't judge you, shame you, or condemn you for your flaws, but lovingly holds them. But, how do we get to a place where we allow them (whoever they are) to do that? Sometimes in life, we know or meet people who do a disservice to us by not handling our hearts properly. We turn cold and restricted thinking it is a safety precaution when in reality it's a prison.

To receive what we desire, we have to make peace and move on. We can not enter a relationship and friendship with the heaviness of the past. Holding onto the fear of abandonment we are faced with, isn't going to make people stay, it's going to push them away. At some point in our lives, we will have to take the risk. Take the risk of being vulnerable, authentic, transparent, and open with friendships, family, and relationships. Now I'm not saying, to just give this much access to just anybody but have the discernment to know who deserves it.

If you're anything like me, being vulnerable is a scary place to be. But, that is no excuse for not at least trying. To get different you have to be different. So this month, let's try to be a little more visible and transparent with those we care about. If we want lasting relationships, we have to take the risk and have fun while doing it.

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"If you don't risk anything, you risk even more." - Erica Jong