by Robbie Goldman
“Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.” – Brene Brown
This week I have seen the valley of Dry Bones Denver being brilliantly vulnerable; embracing the created vulnerability in each of us by trusting it, acknowledging it, and utilizing its contagious qualities.
Last night I turned on the local news to see one of my long time friends in an interview about his life on the streets of Denver during Denver’s Stay At Home Order. He, being brilliantly vulnerable, spoke truth about his life during this crazy moment in history. His words described the “ghost town” Denver has become. They highlighted how those living outside, like him, are exposed to danger everyday and how this virus has only added to that reality.
I watched my coworkers Mark and Dave being brilliantly vulnerable while loading up their backpacks and bike trailer with food and water and dawning safety gear. I watched them ride off to find our friends and to bring love and compassion to the lowest places of our city.
I witnessed an image of a community food box created by the Dry Bones friends that live in community at the Silver Lining House. They placed it by a bus stop and filled it with food, water, and treats. They covered the outside with messages like, “We got this,” “Take what you need,” and “Find a reason to smile.”
What I have always seen is still true today – that this thing we call Dry Bones is fueled by the most powerful contagion this world will ever know – Love.
As God once demonstrated in a manger, being vulnerable truly is about the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.
May you notice, embrace, trust, experience, and live with courageous vulnerability in many ways this week.
