The very best bit of all this just might be...

so simply beautiful it is

Photo by Arthur Poulin on Unsplash

I have used harsh words. I have done things that have hurt others. I am not proud of this. Aware of this, I am learning to do better.

I was afraid, so very afraid of speaking these truths. The truths of the embarrassments, the admittance of the mistakes.

In my honesty, the treasure I have found is that in response to it, others come back to me, acknowledging they have been/are there too in their own missteps.

In these dark corners where I have been hiding parts of myself, where I have been tucking myself under the rug, ashamed as if I was the only one, I am learning I am only a human one, not a singled out one.

I have done some things that could have been done more softly, more kindly, and yes, not just to others, but also more kindly to myself.

And so, I’m working to bring that kindness to my view of my past self, who was clumsy at times and still is, and the part that always will be. I don’t want to shame myself, but rather love myself into growth.

I don’t wish to point the finger in grouping us humans together. I only raise my hand. But if others raise theirs with me in owning up to life’s missteps, I acknowledge that I feel more hopeful about where I am heading if I am heading there with company. I feel your strength will bolster my own. I acknowledge I am so very glad, not that so many of us could have done better, but rather that we can acknowledge this is what being human is, not an excuse for the past but the commitment to learn and move forward together—the commitment to try our best and come back to love.

I am less afraid of my shadows when I have a hand to hold.

I am so happy I have known and unknown friends willing to be vulnerable and courageous with me.

I know the best bit of this life is sharing it with others, especially those willing to lean in and love as we vulnerably share our missteps.

Photo by Aarón Blanco Tejedor on Unsplash