Dear Gatherers,
The word "vulnerability" makes many of us cringe- particularly those of us for whom outer success has played an important role. We do everything in our power to keep our vulnerabilities hidden so that we can be seen as strong and unstoppable. We want the world to know that we are capable of moving through life powerfully. But of course, we all have vulnerabilities and hiding them is oddly counterproductive. They become frightening to us only when we label them as weak, unwanted parts of ourselves. The truth is that embracing them makes us stronger and more authentic.
Brene Brown says:
"Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path."
When I think about the people I have been drawn to throughout my life, I recognize that they have all been comfortable with their vulnerability. Truthfully, it's often people's vulnerabilities that attract us to them.
The writer and feminist Audre Lorde agrees and writes "that visibility which makes us most vulnerable is that which also is the source of our greatest strength."
I am feeling more vulnerable than usual these days, worried that I am not doing enough for my parents and my kids during these trying times. I am irritated with myself for not being more productive, organized, focused. I continually need to be more tolerant and patient. There are times when I feel I am paddling upstream without a paddle. I have shed a lot of tears this week, for my family and our country and have felt helpless to make a real difference. It's not easy to express these sides of ourselves, but it is human.
I know that these qualities of vulnerability only make me more deeply connected to myself and that the more I invite them in, the "deeper and more spiritual" a life I will have.
I hope you will consider giving yourself a break, letting your vulnerabilities snuggle up right next to all your strengths, joining forces so that you can feel more at peace with and accepting of who you truly are. I honor your courage to do so.
In the words of Madeline L'Engle, "when we were children, we used to think that when we were grown-up we would no longer be vulnerable. But to grow up is to accept vulnerability... To be alive is to be vulnerable."
As most of you know, I created The Gathering to provide a sanctuary for women to feel safe and supported, a place where we could be our most open, sincere selves and to find strength in a community of growth-oriented, authentic people. We hope you will join us on Sundays at 4 PT/ 7 ET for an hour of calm, clarity and connection.
We need all of these more than ever..
Here's to all of you!
With Love and Light,
Nora Plesent
Lawyer/Entrepreneur/Mother/Immersive Meditation Leader/Ripple Maker
JOIN US ON SUNDAY AT 4 PT/ 7 ET!!
EVENTS:
FREE FRIDAY FLOW Meditation on IG LIVE at 9 am PT at thegathering.la
SUNDAY GATHERINGS WITH NORA at 4 PT/ 7 ET
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BE STILL AND SOAR, an on-going program designed to connect you to your private, personal and professional self and support your growth in all three areas.. Apply now by contacting
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