Shared Vulnerability

Spiritual reflection to start the day with Ennette C Lainchbury.

Good morning. I was out for dinner the other evening and one by one round the table my colleagues (turned friends) were each sharing one thing they were proud of since we had all last gathered like this. It was almost my turn I knew exactly what I wanted to share but it felt so vulnerable a real inside peak into my life, hopes and dreams outside of work.

I could feel my heart beating faster and faster it was my turn next.

“Well”, I started, “I’ve been putting it off, but I’ve finally done it, I’ve started the whole fertility process and medical paperwork needed to be seen by a fertility specialist.” The floor might as well have disappeared beneath me; all I could feel was the weight of that moment.

I’m 34 years old and I just didn’t think this would be my story. But that evening as we said our goodbyes, one colleague quietly told me how glad he was that I shared. Him and his spouse were in the same situation too. There are actually no words that can convey how seen and grateful I felt.

The thing is I’ve read so many brave stories online from women sharing their fertility journeys, but there was something different about hearing “me too” from someone sitting across the table. A real person. A friend. That shared vulnerability reminded me I wasn’t alone.

There are countless stories of hope and heartache being lived out quietly this morning. I hope you find the courage to share—and receive the miracle gift of hearing those tried and true, most comforting words: me too

Lord, in our dreams, and in our longing, would we feel less alone in our unanswered prayers. Thank you that in all that is unknown, your word unwaveringly says you are good and you are for us.

Amen.