
“Our stories are not meant for everyone. Hearing them is a privilege, and we should always ask ourselves this before we share: “Who has earned the right to hear my story?” If we have one or two people in our lives who can sit with us and hold space for our shame stories, and love us for our strengths and struggles, we are incredibly lucky. If we have a friend, or small group of friends, or family who embraces our imperfections, vulnerabilities, and power, and fills us with a sense of belonging, we are incredibly lucky.”
Brene Brown
Image: Squares, Circles and lines. Oh My! by Kenny Louie via Flickr.
Welcome! I am a lawyer turned freelance writer, essayist, and editor. On staff at Literary Mama and the co-founder and co-editor of the literary journal, The Sunlight Press, my essays and reported work have appeared in The Washington Post, The Lily, Saveur, Civil Eats, Brain, Child, ESPN and elsewhere. I am currently at work on a memoir on grief and culture and how it provides perspective on life’s ordinary graces. I invite you to appreciate the ordinary with me. I hope my daily practice of seeing the magic in the mundane helps you celebrate and find more of these moments in your life too.
This is a wonderfully wise quote, Rudri. Have you read her books? If so, which one would you recommend starting with?
Dana:
I love her books. I recommend reading Daring Greatly and The Gifts of Imperfection. Both have material that offer insightful tips on vulnerability and navigating insecurity. Her TED talks are equally impressive. I hope you check out her work and let me know what you think.
Love this and will save it to share some time in my friendship column. It’s spot on. Thank you!
Oh, thanks, Nina! I am glad you liked it.
I love Brene Brown. I recently shared my story with someone. When you find that someone who loves you, warts and all, you can tell them anything. Very few people get that privilege. I am always honored when someone entrusts me with their story.
I agree, Robin. You should carefully choose who has the privilege to listen to your story. It might take many years to find that certain someone, but when you do, it is a welcome refuge. Always good to see you in this space. xo
I love Brene!