The Gift of Fragility

In our most intimate relationships we are afforded the luxury of seeing our loved ones in moments of heightened fragility. This could be seen as a burden, but more often enough it is a gift and a privilege.

To shed one's load, and to lean into our softness - to reveal one's wobly bits, without shame - is an enormous act of courage and generosity. In doing so, we share in our humanity and share a whole spectrum of emotions.

At a dinner party recently, a friend's tears from laughter quite unexpectedly turned into tears of sadness. In front of a small party of friends - tears filled her face, as she wept like a child. We could sense her reservation, as well as her relief to be held, to be heard and to be seen.

In all likelihood, the fatigue of a busy schedule may have prompted her outburst. Still, we moved into the night feeling closer to one another, each reaching out to hold her and each sharing the collective crosses we each bore. In this way, there was a natural alchemy born from her tears.

Not only did her exposure create space for her to be held by us, but invited us each to release ourselves and resonate with one another. Fragility, when offered in safe spaces like this, is a gift and an invitation to connect, share and shed. It may feel unexpected, uncomfortable or unwelcome - but in the right hands it is always an opportunity for greater intimacy and generosity.

So welcome fragilty - be it yours or anothers. It is there to teach us the power of gentleness, of exposure and of shedding. Fragility is so often an invitation for greater connection, empathy and compassion. Which in itself is a powerful gift.