As is probably apparent to most of you…I tend to be very open and vulnerable.  I am learning that this approach to life is not a popular one and that it is quite risky.  Most of us tend to hide behind the facade that we've created.  The idea that everything is fine (by the way, I was once told that fine really means-Frantic, Insecure, Neurotic and Emotional).  We put on the happy-face when we're in a crowd.  After all, we have the suburban house, the wife/husband, the children and even the family pet…we attend church; our children are on the honor roll…of coarse everything is o.k.  Why wouldn't it be?

The truth is everything is not always "fine", everything is not always peaches and cream.  Sometimes, quite frankly, things are chaotic, overwhelming and maybe even seem hopeless.  We all experience pain, failure, rejection and heart break.  Yet, we hide those risky emotions…try to bury them.  Something I have learned is that emotions buried alive NEVER die.  As a matter of fact, I have found that the deeper I try to bury my emotions, the more damage and havoc they inflict later. 

I realize also that we need to demonstrate wisdom with what we share, how we share it, when we share and with whom we share.  However, most of us could do with a lot more truth with love in our lives.  We have been called to help each other, love one another…this will only be as effective and real as we are real with others.  Yes, there is risk to this way of life.  I have experienced rejection, loss of acceptance and belonging…even loss of relationships, BUT I have also experienced extreme love!  All in all it was well worth the risk!!!