Rejection

Beloved, I'm not sure if you relate, but I've faced so much rejection in the world that it is hard to show up in the world. It is hard to be seen. It is hard to trust my own voice.

But I know there is freedom in being myself. I know it contributes to freedom in the world.

But it's so damn hard. And the path forward seems uncertain.

I am a conflicted human - DEEPLY imprinted by my upbringing (as we all are). I'm doing my best to excavate the bullshit (and there seems to be a lot of that) while preserving that which is good, that which is pure, that which is beautiful (and this is there too in good measure).

I never learned how to navigate conflict, discord, and miscommunication well (and it's not all my fault). But now that I know that I have these challenges, it IS my fault to not choose to do anything about them.

I want to transcend and include (something I first was introduced to by Richard Rohr). I am quite aware that I am not there yet. My desire to do it right informs me that I have no idea how to do this.

If we are to do this - transcend and include, each generation must do their work to preserve, affirm, and honor the wisdom from earlier generations while rejecting that which is insidious, repugnant, and shameful. Each generation holds both. To deny this, is to deny life.

John the Baptist - led the way - REPENT (turn from your insidious, repugnant, shameful ways). Jesus followed with - "you have heard it said, but I tell you." (Jesus was about progression, reformation, and evolution because love is too).

We are beloved. We are loveable, loved, and loving. This knowledge is the basis from which we can move beyond our confounding actions that don't align with this. We must be and stay rooted in our inherent loveability and inherent loveability of others.

This is profound work - the work of a lifetime. Love wins.

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I can’t wait to see more of the authentic you out in the world. We need it. We need you. Don't let rejection limit you.

Rooting for you.

Questions for Contemplation:

1. What are you feeling called to share?

2. What in your history limits your sharing of yourself?

3. What in your history has equipped you to show up well in the world?

4. What do you plan to do about it? What are next steps?

May you always see the blessing.

-esb

P.S. - Thanks for being here. We’d love to hear how you’re doing & what you’re learning!

P.P.S. - All the art in these newsletters is mine, unless otherwise specified.

P.P.P.S. - I recorded a reading of the poem “Same-Change” I shared in the last newsletter post. I have a growing playlist of readings of my poetry. I’d love to see you there!