Thought post: It's okay to be vulnerable

I used to be really afraid of showing my vulnerable side, even to the closest people in my life. While being open about my feelings is still something I struggle with today, I'm beginning to come to terms that allowing others to see the softer, more helpless side of me isn't always a bad thing.

I used to see vulnerability as a form of weakness. And I never wanted to associate myself as weak, because life threw me many trying and unfortunate situations which required me demonstrate strength beyond my capacity. Growing up, I always had to be the sensible and mature child, not because I wanted to, but because circumstances forced me to. Unwilling to bow down to the chain of problems and heartache, I always reminded myself to stay resilient throughout all circumstances, which really meant one thing - never crumbling in front of anyone.

In hindsight, putting up a strong front was perhaps just me ferociously trying to deny reality.

But I've recently come to realise that being vulnerable in front of others is really okay.

Just yesterday, I broke down in front of a group of people while sharing something that was really painful and close to my heart. And strangely enough, I felt a sense of peace and acceptance after that session, as though I had been emotionally emptied out. It made me realise that pouring out my emotions (and tears) wasn't simply a sign a weakness. It was also what would give me strength for another day.

I just wanted to share this so that people facing tough times will know that it's okay to be honest with your emotions. If you need to cry, cry. If you need to take a break, take a break. Do what will allow you to purge your feelings of despair or distress, for it is in our moments of weakness that we will find strength. And it is in the darkest nights that the stars will shine the brightest.