THE SUPER POWER OF YOUR STORY

If there was a secret super power for good, would you use it?

Clark Kent Clothing

Most of us would say, “absolutely”.

So here’s a super power that all people possess. Yes, including you.

This power is hidden under Clark Kent clothing.

Once people see your super power, life won’t be the same. And that’s good. For you, and the people you love.

Your super power is in your story.

More specifically, your super power is the most vulnerable part of your story.

You know, the part of your story that makes you pause when you think about sharing it. The part that may be a secret.

The Part That Makes You Pause

Whenever my friend Connie, tells that part of her story, she prefaces it with nervous laughter and says, “I hope it’s OK if I share this…” Then she talks about her life as a pastor and drinking herself to sleep at night to cope with distress. Connie openly shares her son’s battle with mental health and does so because she would rather advocate for her son while he is ALIVE than raise awareness when it’s too late.

Some people don’t know how to respond to raw honesty. And other’s are quick to judge. But in the long run vulnerability is contagious.

When I hear Connie tell her story it gives me courage to share mine.

Present Tense

In Christian circles, believers who deal with anxiety are judged as weak. So you can imagine what it’s like for a pastor facing anxiety. Being God’s man or woman of faith and power means you can’t be anxious.

I’m anxious about everything or it feels that way.

Note my use of the present tense. Sharing this makes me tense.

Anxiety is not something I triumphantly left behind in my weaker days.

Anxiety became my super power. Or better still, God’s strength was powerful in my weakness. When I start to feel anxious, that’s my signal to pause, say thanks and pray. I realized that much of my anxiety is related to the fear of failing at doing important things for God.

Important To Share

I’m feeling anxious as I write this post. The mere fact that you are reading it should tell you I believe it is important to share.

So, I surrender the responsibility and accompanying anxiety over to God.

Owning Your Story

The best definition I’ve heard for story is that it is a sense-making device. Stories present a clear and condensed version of life and for that reason people are drawn to them.

Vulnerability is the super power of your story.

Brené Brown says, “Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable.”

Bring The Walls Down

Once you are ready to bring the walls down, find a trusted confidant. You want someone who will not judge you or try to fix you. That someone will draw you close and remind you who you really are.

Connie’s story; my story; your story are what’s needed to shine a light in the darkness. Your story and how God found you in the middle of your story and drew you close, gives real hope to others.

All heroes don’t wear a cape.

Use your super power for good.

You can start by emailing me bob@revwords.com or by sharing some of your story at the bottom of this page.

Hope grows here.  You’ll find stories that inspire, build faith, and offer lasting purpose.

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