Being Human

“What we don’t need in the midst of struggle is the shame for being human.”

~ Brené Brown

In our past several reflections, we have sat with the themes of waiting, hoping, and finding joy in the simple moments. An overarching idea that seems to be surfacing is the idea of being on a journey. Earlier this month, we explored the feeling of expectation and how, for many, that connects to their faith experiences during the season of Advent. 

When we are on a journey, we have expectations: Where our destination is, how long the trip may take, and who will accompany us. However, there are often surprises along the way. Unexpected circumstances make their way into our realities and we are faced with the humanness of life head-on. Life is just messy sometimes. Not everything comes with an explanation or valid reason. 

Inspired by Desmond Tutu’s writings, I hold the belief that most people in this world are doing the best they can with what they have in the season they are in. We are all in different places when it comes to waiting, hoping, and rejoicing. That’s okay. Brené Brown gives us a helpful reminder when she writes, “What we don’t need in the midst of struggle is the shame for being human.” Wherever you find yourself today, I hope you can extend some grace to yourself, acknowledging that you are human. And life can be tough sometimes. But throughout every season, we are still invited into expectation, turning our gaze toward the common Truths we, as humans, hold dear.