Potential to Rise
Water lilies are wondrous examples of rebirth. Not only do their serene flowers close each night and reopen each morning, but also because their beautiful, bright bloom emerges from deep, dark mud and gently floats on the surface of still freshwater.
Around the globe water lilies have symbolized enlightenment, and beauty arising from hardship. You see, if the water lily is not in heavy and dense enough mud, it will not root properly or bloom quite as large and exquisite. The transformation from out of the darkness is not only necessary, but absolutely required.
However, not mentioned nearly enough as their appearance, water lilies are quite helpful to their environment and its ecosystem. It should be no surprise then, that as I continue to love and accept my shadow self, I am reminded of water lilies and their role. Not only do I believe that everything is here to help and teach us, I see and recognize its unique and inherent value. Water lilies emerge from murky depths, and they show us how to do it with grace and resilience.
Rising through vulnerability
We don’t build trust by offering our help, we build trust by asking for it.
It’s a vulnerable thing to ask for help.“Will you help me?” Is very, very vulnerable.
“Can I help you?” Not so much. An act of service.
Being vulnerable is one of the most misunderstood concepts, although being vulnerable is the key to build trust in ourselves and our relationships. From our intimate relationships to finding a career you enjoy, and just connecting with the world around you.
Perhaps you’re one of the people who question or even cringe, when you hear the word “vulnerability”. Does it conjure scenarios of overtly loud crying and/or exasperated discussions about your emotions? Do you think it’s telling people what you don’t normally? Well, I’m here to tell you that vulnerability is far simpler, more mundane, and yet way more powerful than all of the preconceived, wishy-washy notions you might have.
Humour me for a moment— do you find yourself falling into boring conversation topics because they’re “safe”, and you don’t have to risk offending or inciting anyone with them? Are you stuck in a job or lifestyle you don’t truly enjoy? Can you let your partner know that their behaviour or actions have caused you pain? Genuine vulnerability is not about what you do, it’s all about why you’re doing it. It’s the intention behind your behaviour that makes it truly vulnerable (or not). Asking for help is vulnerable because of why you’re doing it. Asking for repair, or connection, or to help achieve your most authentic life. Your intention to live authentically to your needs. Honouring your needs builds trust in yourself. Letting others help meet your needs builds trust in the relationship. Being vulnerable is about meeting your needs.
Opening oneself up to vulnerability to become comfortable with asking for help doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process. But I can assure you, if you put in the work—if you have the difficult conversations, if you express yourself honestly, asking for help when needed, even when it’s risky to do so, you will find new depth to your relationships, careers and life.