“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weaknesses.” ~Brené Brown

The arrival of spring, although brief, seemed to change the world in a matter of hours. Each year I am amazed to witness the return of the green blades of grass and the delicate sprouting flowers as they bravely and resolutely poke their heads out of the earth, allowing us to be witnesses of their willingness to be vulnerable to the cold, and even snow this year, that are still very much present. It seems like one minute there is only wet, cold earth and muted dull shades of brown, and suddenly, colour begins to appear, gently at first, and then everywhere: bright yellow daffodils, multi-coloured tulips, green leaves. It always makes me feel better, and this year – with all that is going on – these signs of returning life seemed somehow more precious and meaningful. Each delicate change reminded me that the sun’s strength and warmth always return following the darker, cold winter. 

I think they can also remind us of the inner courage and strength of human beings, which can emerge when the proper conditions, both inner and outer, are present – especially when outer conditions seem extremely challenging, like snow in the middle of spring. Despite the vulnerability we are all feeling during the COVID-19 crisis there have been many examples of human courage and strength. Some of us have been asked to continue to work despite difficult working conditions that perhaps feel unsafe, while others of us have been asked to remain inside, isolated. All of us were not allowed to see family members and friends and were asked to avoid places that perhaps brought much needed comfort and support in the past. We have all been forced into a challenging situation that would stretch even the most even-tempered individual. 

These situations remind me of the strength inherent in vulnerability, of being open and receptive, despite the challenges and the fear that try to shake us and close us off from change and new experience; and there are many opportunities to shut down, to close ourselves off from others and the world in general. When will this situation end? What will life be like when it does? These are questions that have become our constant companions these days. However, there are not really any clear answers, which can cause us again to be in that place of feeling vulnerable, unsure of what lies ahead. 

How can we face this situation with openness and a vulnerability that is strong and courageous? Maybe it is in simply striving to remain in gratitude for all that we dohave, for those signs of spring, the song of the birds, the colours, etc. Speaking with others may help, sharing our concerns and feeling heard. Taking care of ourselves – enjoying a warm bath, relaxation and meditation, taking a walk, playing with our children. Whatever it is, we need to find ways to cultivate our own courage and strength and to develop the ability to care for ourselves so that we can care for those around us and be open to them, instead of shutting down and hiding under the covers. After this crisis passes, perhaps we can encourage one another to remain open to being vulnerable and to express our feelings. This could allow us to process this experience so it doesn’t turn into a part of our past that prevents our senses and feelings from being truly open; supporting our ability to be vulnerable and face our future experiences and relationships with truth and courage.

Karen Guitman, RP qualifying