Integrate through Vulnerability!
One thing we ALL have in common right now is that we are feeling vulnerable with all that is unfolding and halting in our world. So. Much. Unknown. Tons of factors out of our control. Vulnerability is knocking at the door of all of our hearts. Today we continue our series on ways that our 6 Integrate themes are incredibly pertinent to reflect on during this COVID-19 pandemic. If there was ever a time we needed tools for experiencing deep inner peace and joy, it is now. Today we focus on the 3rd theme of our Integrate material: Vulnerability: In the Swahili language, there isn’t even a word for this, except when referring to orphans. But, in many ways we don’t have English words for our vulnerabilities either. They are hard to see and even harder to name and share. At a time when the world is shutting down, the economy is on a downturn, and the future is so unknown, it will cause us each to experience feelings of significant practical or situational vulnerability. Look beyond those at what emotional vulnerabilities are also there. No matter what we lose right now, there is one thing we will always have: the ability to choose how to respond. Some ideas to help with cultivating vulnerability:
Watch this TED talk on vulnerability by Brenè Brown. Brenè has been a very influential voice in the shaping of the Integer Network values.
Get alone. Imagine 2-3 things about yourself that you would NOT want to share with others. Now, imagine you did it. You shared it all. Write out “what is the worst thing that could happen if I did this?” List the possible implications of your vulnerability. Reflect and listen for what you hear and feel. Respond to the nudges.
Vulnerability is magnetic and contagious. How can you serve others by inspiring them toward deeper vulnerability this week?
We end with the words of Paul in 2 Corinthians 12: 9-10 which are a counterintuitive look at our weaknesses: “...But I am with you; that is all you need. My power shows up best in weak people. Now I am glad to boast about how weak I am; I am glad to be a living demonstration of Christ’s power, instead of showing off my own power and abilities. Since I know it is all for Christ’s good, I am quite happy about “the thorn,” and about insults and hardships, persecutions and difficulties; for when I am weak, then I am strong—the less I have, the more I depend on him."
Together, Noah and the Team