Fire It Up

Shame is a self-critical emotion. The moment we feel ashamed, we perceive ourselves as less than ideal. And here’s the kicker, it’s not so much that we are ashamed of something we have done. Instead, we are ashamed of who we are. It is so pernicious and malicious that when we wrap ourselves in shame, we see anyone other than ourselves as deserving.

Now, many will experience shame from time to time, but let it stick around too long and it becomes corrosive. In order to move through shame, one possible strategy is to reach out to trusted others. I know. I know. Bringing light to shame is beyond uncomfortable. But the thing to remember is that shame is, at its core, a fear of disconnection.

When you reach out to others, you eventually realize that it’s not just you. You begin to recognize that shame is just another part of being human. And guess what? You are human. And when you accept that humanness, you fire up that compassion for self.

So, when needed, don’t be afraid to stoke your own fire. Turn it into a blaze if need be. You are worthy exactly as you are and that is nothing to be ashamed about.