Nov 16, 2016
Too often, we hide behind the highlight reel of our lives rather than letting people see the real us. And I believe the culprit behind our isolation is fear of rejection and shame. Even though we are the most connected generation of all time we are the most emotionally disconnected. So this week, I'd like to share a message I recently preached. It's about the need for authentic community and the trap of isolation caused by shame. While on stage, I used a simple demonstration of two plants to represent a life enriched by healthy community that fosters identity, purpose, and character development in our life. But as I mentioned, when we live isolated, uprooted lives, there's a good chance we will receive an onslaught of depression, depletion, and deception. That is no way to live. Wouldn't you agree? I give my life to see fear and shame broken off of people just like you. The development of your potential is at stake. A healthy, fulfilling life is at stake. And great relationships are at stake. Emotionally-speaking, shame opens the door to anxiety and depression. It builds walls of self-protection and overconfidence, both of which prevent others from having access to bring truth, life, and freedom to us. I believe this is my core message: that freedom from fear and shame will allow you to live a successful life. And I believe that success, as legendary coach John Wooden said, is, "peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to do your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming." But you can't do any of that if your life is looking through the lens of fear and shame. It's why I say, it's never too late to become who you really are. Because this conversation is cornerstone to my passion, I need your help. In which areas of life are you struggling to find freedom from fear and shame? Write me an email. Better yet, leave me a voicemail right now. There's an icon on the right side of your screen. I'll be compiling your questions and hosting a Q&A episode with two friends. Together, we will go after this thing head-on because your life's potential matters to me.