Opening Up

When I was younger I really thought I had a shortcut to God, wisdom, the Universe, whatever you want to call it.  Always on the path to learn about myself and the world, as I learned, I thought I knew more.  As I gained insights, I slightly elevated myself above others, thinking my thoughts were more unique and creative.  I observed, worked hard, saw the big picture and made some wise connections, which made me seem brilliant to a few. 

As life would have it, I fell from grace… grief stricken, shell-shocked and weak.  Never in my wildest imagination could I figure out how this experience would serve me, as I KNEW every other life experience had.  How could immense, multiple losses benefit anyone?  Slowly, I made my way through the pain, one small step at a time.  Reading wisdoms from others in similar mindsets. Processing my lethargy through listlessly telling my story until I broke through my thick armor and got to the core of the pain.  Opening my mind and heart as I listened to feedback from my tribe. Finding courage to be vulnerable. Reflecting on my understandings as they came to me.  Putting actions to my revelations.

Humbled.  I’ve walked a mile in hundreds of pairs of shoes now.  I choose not to judge.  I choose to value the stories of other kindred souls and even those who are not on the same path.  I’ve changed.  I see such beauty in the wrinkled face, the scraggily weed, the broken heart, the perceived failure….. My heart is open. 

- Diana