I think writers, by their very nature, are vulnerable. They write their heart and soul and then put it out there for the world to read, and then revel in it or reject it. We have to be able to wear vulnerable without blame but with honesty and integrity and courage. It takes plenty of courage. We have to remind ourselves, writers or whatever we are, that we are decent human beings with much to offer. We have to stop hassling ourselves and work from our strengths and stick with those who “have our back.”

Where do we go to catch our breath or just breathe, sort things out? Can I be the judge of what is good for me? Sometimes I feel like antelope-illusive and skittish, quick to turn tail and run, but then in seeming confusion, they turn and run right back at you. I remind myself of Harrison Ford sometimes, in the original Star Wars movie. Han Solo takes off running down the hall with Chewy, screaming and chasing Stormtroopers…and then they turn around and Han comes back running and screaming in front of them.

The unexamined life is not worth living. Auto-pilot will eventually fail. All relationships require an understanding, a vulnerability, and courage to face that together. We also need an oasis. Mine is in nature. When I run with the moon, it brings me joy. When I walk into the sunset, it brings me peace. When I snowshoe into beauty, it fills my soul. When I work hard outside, it shows me my strength and perseverance. I am vulnerable in all things, but I don’t always have the courage to show it.