We all have parts of our story that are a little more painful to own up to than others. As humans we have been wired to avoid pain at any cost, with the results being that we often end up locking those parts of ‘our story’ up in a closet somewhere, never to see the light of day again.
When we do this to ourselves – we allow the pain and hidden aspects to insidiously infiltrate our lives and effect our wellbeing and sense of peace.
However, I propose that if we decide to let them out into the light of day and out of the closet, so to speak, and consciously choose to own them – something quite magical can occur.
We become free of our past – it no longer defines or controls us.
We live in a society where everybody puts up their highlight reels on social media.
Our darkness stays hidden. We suffer alone. But, when we bring it into the light, pure magic happens. We heal. We give others permission to “fail” fantastically. We inspire them to own the parts of their story that they may feel shame around.
We are taught to believe that the point in life is to be happy – however, happiness is usually fleeting in its sensation.
Perhaps the point in life is to become more deeply who we are and more engaged with the world within – and all around us.
That may sound obvious, but if you look at so many people today, many are avoiding life – all of the rich tapestry that can allow for a deeper connection to self, to others and to life itself.
Vitality is limited to ambition, work, addictions, fantasies, preoccupations and avoidance of what is really happening for us.
This avoidance of life at all costs fosters a shallow, unhappy and ‘half-lived’ existence. We need to cultivate, become fortified and connected to our essence. Who are we when we don’t feel acknowledged or supported by the outside world?!
Life can be a rich and deep enquiry into Soul where we foster real depth from a space of awareness, invite all of life in and learn to dance in the totality of our existence. Whether we are feeling ‘happy’ or not.
Western society’s focus on materialism, achievement, ‘looking good’, being ‘happy’ and having a ‘good time’ fosters a deep spiritual immaturity, which I see running rampant in the world today.
We can see it in the ‘New Age’ movement and in many spiritual circles and communities, where the focus is mostly about just feeling happy, having a good time, loving everyone and ‘manifesting everything you desire’.
It is only PART of the journey (and some of it IS valid), however, I see so many people becoming dangerously stuck in their development at this particular point of their transformation. I know – I’ve been there!
Recently I’ve come to realise that I’ve let (some) of my own stories define me for a little too long.
However, stepping into full ownership, I feel empowered – I feel free.
Brene Brown says, “When we deny our stories, they define us. When we own our stories, we get to write a brave new ending.”
This time around, as I write my brave new chapter and build new pathways that are more aligned, richer, deeper and more fulfilling; I’ve decided to re-define myself (again).
For me, life is about how many hearts we have touched, how well we have loved, our connections to self and others, how many lives are changed by our example, and how much creative fire (Spirit) flows in and around us.
When we live true to ourselves, and to ourselves only – we ignite and carve out a path that is unique, inspiring and deeply fulfilling!
Maybe you are reading this and see a reflection of a part of your own story inside of mine. Maybe today is the day you shift the perception and, instead of feeling shame around your pain and hidden aspects of self, you own it as part of your truth. You don’t have to share it publicly (unless you want to). But just allow acknowledgement for the hidden gifts within the dark nights, within the challenges… for the sake of your own healing.
You are beautiful and magical and perfect – especially because of your flaws.
Those cracks are what let the light in, baby!
Be blessed. Be well. Stay true to you and all will be revealed.