“In a futile attempt to erase our past, we deprive the community of our healing gift. If we conceal our wounds out of fear and shame, our inner darkness can neither be illuminated nor become a light for others.”
― Brennan Manning
Today, at the beginning of lent—a season of reflection, prayer, and fasting—may I lean further into greater recognition of my own mistakes and failings. Not in celebratory order, but out of greater recognition for the need of such transparency to those encircled around me.
May I give up all my life polishing. May I stand with arms wide open, in a posture humility, gratitude, and love—welcoming the entry of others and the exiting of myself.
And then, may our decrepit, dim, drained lights shine as one.