I’m a mess…

Often I have vivid memories of conversations that impact me deeply. A year or so ago I had a conversation with a dear friend and said, “I’m a mess.” She looked me in the eyes and boldly and lovingly said, “You’re not a mess, you’re awake.” I’ve pondered that simple phrase so many times and it truly is one that has helped to re-member my heart to believe what is truest about me.

I am not a mess. I mess up and make mistakes, but it’s part of the journey and part of growth. Brené Brown calls it being in “the rumble” act of our story. It’s embracing even the messy parts of the journey and being willing to talk about them and wonder what lessons are in the midst of the moments. It’s the courage to accept the freedom to be messy and know that it’s worth the risk and I can trust that those who love me unconditionally will show up the next day.

Being awake is one of the greatest gifts of my life–it involves embracing all the wild and wonderful parts of my story–even the messy. It’s part of fear<less living that I wouldn’t trade for the world. I’m grateful this morning again for those who have loved me even in the messy moments of my life, those I have the humble privilege of walking with in the midst of their journeys, and the hope and grace that comes from being perfectly in progress.