I think we all go through periods of self doubt, where we wonder if we are really making a difference by telling our stories. I feel that way at least once every few weeks, and then I rediscover why it is that I do what I do and why you should do it too.
Your story lets others know that they are not alone.
Your story can heal.
A few weeks ago someone came to me with a personal problem. Something that I went through myself. As they spoke, I realized that most people would pass judgement on what this person was going though but I found myself able to have a deep understanding of the issue and compassion for the person and how they were feeling. I was able to offer advice and an understanding ear, and I realized what a gift that was.
If I didn't tell my story then no one would know it.
There are some things about me that could be coined 'shameful' and yet I am open about them. I have talked about my affair with a married man, my verbally abusive past, my deep depression, my abandonment issues, my body image struggles, and my decision not to have children. All of those things are things that someone out there can relate to.
There have also been things that I haven't found the voice to talk about, my struggles with self-injury, my complicated relationship with my mother and step-father, my choice to be celibate, my coming-out as bisexual, all of these stories need to be told as well, but it's a difficult process to make peace with them enough for them to do good in the world.
The things that you are ashamed about, are the things that other people have been ashamed about, are still ashamed about, and might always be ashamed about. You, me, us, we give them a chance to see that something good can come out of those situations because we are the good that comes from those situations.
So just in case you needed a reminder.
Tell your story.
It matters.
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