Strength & Vulnerability
Strength and vulnerability are what I learned from dealing with anxiety and depression for more than four decades. However, there were many, many years that I considered being vulnerable to weakness. I found it challenging to communicate my feelings accurately. Therefore, rather than risk being misunderstood or burdening anyone with my issues, I closed myself off from developing deep, emotional connections with people. What I’ve learned is that there needs to be a balance. Being vulnerable does not make you weak. In fact, by embracing vulnerability, you show strength.
Strong Women
Unfortunately, our strength and vulnerability are often worn like a suit of armor for strong women, a shield that protects us from the outside world. I grew up learning to develop strength as a way of protecting myself at an early age. It became abundantly clear, though, when I was young, that no one would be there to protect me when I needed to be protected.
So, vulnerability meant weakness, and that weakness made me prey. I was prey to those who sexually assaulted me and to those who bullied me. Thankfully, I can now embrace my strength and vulnerability, and there’s a new level of strength. I feel more empowered now, and I’ve truly learned to love myself.
Sense of Freedom
As I write this, I realize that so many past events have washed away on the tides of emotion that no longer serve me. I love the freedom of being able to balance strength and vulnerability.
Having a sense of balance has allowed me to open my heart more to relationships. Where I once felt insecure and introverted, I am now finding that I am not an introvert. I wonder what the future holds, and I look forward to creating deep and meaningful relationships. Embracing strength and vulnerability has helped me not to seek validation, which used to be an issue in relationships. Not any longer!