What’s going on? I mean, what’s really going on? Not on your Facebook status or your latest Instagram pic. What would happen if we shared what was really going on? What if we talked more about the messy middle? What if we talked about the unfinished parts?
We love a happy ending, don’t we? We love the finish line. The final product. The end of the story, but you know what I’m finding? Most of life is that “in the process” part of the story.
The part of the story where we’re not sure it’s going to work out. Where we wonder if we will fail? Where life gives us a big plot twist. Will I be able to make it? Will my circumstances ever change? No one wants to sign up to share this pep talk!
What would happen if I did share the middle of my story, the unfinished, the ugly, the doubt, the mess? I may be judged, some will likely try to “fix me” and maybe I’ll be misunderstood. All possibilities.
BUT…what might happen if we started to get more comfortable with the tension of the “not yet”? If we were willing to share honestly our real “work in progress” status.
I’m thinking we would feel less alone. The shame would shake off quicker and the light would be let in. Never underestimate the power of confession, of simply sharing the truth of where it’s at. It ushers in freedom!
I’m thinking our true confessions just might encourage one another to trust in the goodness of God even when our eyes don’t see. Even if we aren’t where we want to be. Even when we’re tired and want to sit down and opt out. These aren’t the stories we tell, but these are the stories we live. Aren’t they?
I can tell you, these are the stories I need to hear. I want to cheer for you when you cross the finish line, but I need to hear about when it’s falling apart too. It reminds me that I’m not alone in my struggle and it reminds you too.
So, maybe we can all start to be a little more brave, a little more authentic and start to talk about the stories that we don’t like to tell. I promise to cheer for you whether your taking your victory lap or struggling to stay in the race and I could use your cheers too.
Be Encouraged My Friend!
Neeserisms 
If a room full of people were asked “How many are with you in your struggles?” I think few would feel they had good support. So many of us feel alone or at best loved but not understood.
I think you are right! I want to be someone who helps others feel less alone.
Amen! What would happen if we shared our struggles? We would let the world know about our weaknesses, which is real, but we now have an opportunity to share with others the greatness of our God
Yes! In our weakness He is made strong. One of my very favorite verses but hard to live out daily.
Answering “fine” or “good” when someone asks how I am is a habit rather than a thoughtful response. While that glib response is the right one in many social/work situations you remind me to honor and respect my friends, myself, and my Creator with my truth.
YES Barb!