Masks

Lately, especially in one of my classes in particular, we have been focusing on reflection and what it looks like to be a reflective Christian. It's been great so far, and I'm stoked to see where it goes.

In other news, a friend of mine just posted one of the most beautiful things I've ever read. I'll post it here... then reflect on it (though I doubt very seriously that it will be as thought-provoking given the late hour):

Writing too honestly could expose the death-riddled parts of our hearts and incur more death by the judgement passed by readers. Judgment may be too strong. I’ll use the word ‘critique’. Subtle, malignant analyses of the content of one’s writing. In humbling ourselves, in vulnerability we offer an open window to the soul. people can view the inner sanctuary of the house and come and commune. To create the life-breathing relationships it takes to make a house a home. Or vandals may enter to tear down the intricate design of the designer. Destroying and deeming worthless the beautiful paintings that may be in the process of being refurbished. They may not be as they once were, but that’s what the designer is there for... Bringing to attention what the artist intended originally. Restoring the integrity of the house.
To write honestly, is to unveil what may be incorrect, or what is in process of being established in that inner sanctuary. To write with vulnerability is to invite others to come and view our naked hearts. It is an opportunity for our thoughts to produce what we hope for them to. To read, is to watch something blossom or infect.

Ok so... mad props to my pal here. I'm just saying, if she were to write a book, I'd be the first one in line. Of course, that's certainly not what she's getting at or looking for; recognition. In a nutshell what the above thought says to me is 'Are you willing?' Willing to take a leap of faith and just hope and pray to God that someone out there is reflecting and wondering and maybe even doubting just as much as you are.

All I know is, I've already started this annoying yet captivating process of reflection and there is no turning back. So what are my thoughts exactly? And that's all they are- just thoughts.

Here's something: I'm tired of hiding whatsoever. This mask that I've worn for so long, that too many of us wear for our whole lives? I want nothing to do with it anymore. Not to be cheesy and quote Princess Diaries, but since it came to mind: "I'm taking it off and it's going in the dirt." But seriously. And that dirt is the dirt that friends have piled up on the grass from a hole they've been digging- my hole. They've taken the shovel and dug until there is no more room to dig.

That's where I want my mask to go.

I want it so there is literally nothing more to dig because everything has been poured out. I want to live with nothing hidden.

My question? Are we willing to be vulnerable against all odds, with the possibility of the hammer of judgment pounding it's ugly gavel all around us, in order that we might become a people with unveiled faces?

Oh how beautiful it could be.