Last week, I shared my story about where I’ve landed (for now) in my relationship with Christianity.
Someone reached out to me privately in response and, among other things, asked me why I felt the need to share this story publicly.
There was a brief moment when I felt shame and doubt (maybe it would have been safer to stay hidden, quiet, and small?), but I was relieved to notice this was just a tiny ping inside the bigness of my clarity, knowing, and self-trust.
The answer was obvious and clear. I knew exactly why I needed to share this story.
...Because I believe my story (and stories in general) are worth telling.
...Because I believe I'm entitled to tell the truth about myself and my life. And even deeper, I feel the imperative to do just that.
...Because I knew this particular story had nuance, complexity, and beauty worthy of taking up space in the public sphere. I also guessed it would be useful and resonant to others, which it has been.
...Because I want to be known as my deepest, truest self. I want to live and speak with freedom and openness. I want those who would reject my real self to self-select out of my orbit.
...Because I want someone going through something similar to feel less alone and more empowered to speak and live into *their* truth.
...Because it matters to me that I show up free, deep, brave, and real. That’s a soul imperative.
Know this, friends: your stories change the world, and they are worth telling.
Stories create connection, spark resonance, summon power, and expand imagination.
For the common good, please tell the stories your soul is asking you to share.
I get the discomfort.
Stories are personal and vulnerable.
Sometimes, their power is destabilizing or even shattering.
They spark change, and change is not easy.
But our stories are able to communicate truth, create connection, and catalyze possibility unlike anything else.
So I would encourage you to remember the stories that have done that for you and then challenge yourself to pay it forward by doing the same.