This week, I got to hear multiple people's stories for the first time. Many of these stories were shared publicly in honor of National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, and others were shared more privately with only close friends. Regardless of where I heard these testimonies, each story reminded me of the significance of openly sharing our stories with others. Throughout the week, I was so encouraged by listening to the testimonies of my close friends, hallmates and even strangers. It is special that everyone's story is different but can be personally relatable in some way. Yet sometimes, it can be hard to open up and share our stories with others. We shy away from sharing because vulnerability is scary, and we often fear our stories are unworthy of telling.
The truth is, being vulnerable is kind of nerve-wracking. There's just no way around it, but vulnerability can also be beautiful. It can be wonderful when vulnerability allows people to connect on a deeper level. People can listen to your story and think, "Hey, I've been there too." There is something unexplainably peaceful about knowing you are not alone in your struggles or triumphs, and as for your testimony not being good enough to share, well, that's just not true. I think that all too often we get caught up in trying to outdo each other - even as Christians. We think that if our testimony does not include some extreme life change, like being a recovered alcoholic or drug-addict, that it's just not worth sharing.
How silly! We all have had moments in our lives that have been life defining. Many of these moments may have been in menial everyday life. No matter what the situation, I argue that seeing God work in your life is always worth sharing – whether it be a little realization or an enormous lifestyle change. The grace of God is always "cool" enough to share. Your story is important because it is different than anyone else's.
I am thankful for the stories I have heard this week because they have encouraged me to think about my own story. What are the moments that have changed my life? Why did they change in my life? What is something that I could share with others that is relatable and encouraging? I hope that this encourages you to think about your own personal testimony and to share it regardless of the reasons that may hold you back. If you don't know whom to share with, I'd be honored to listen to you!
