When I was up in Boulder this week to shoot the interview for Gaiam TV, I had brought an oxygen converter because I have a lung condition and with the elevation there's a lot less oxygen. The thing is, I was embarrassed to bring the machine to the TV station. I am a very private person, and I didn't want people to ask questions about it and talk about it. I didn't want them to see a part of me that feels weak.
It's embarrassing to even write about it.
So I brought the oxygen tank to the TV station, and I expected something weird to happen. But there was no problem. Everyone was very accommodating. Two of the people there had one of those machines themselves. I used a little before the interview, and it helped me. In fact, I kept it just off-screen during the interview.
The thing is, everyone has weaknesses. When I'm working with a client, I
don't have critical thoughts about them. I understand there are things
they dislike about their life, but I just want to help them feel better.
We all have limitations. There are parts of us that we wish were stronger or better, whatever that means. We
see other people, and we think, "I could have that; I could be that."
We could be funnier, richer, have the perfect partner...fill in the
blank. Of course we'd want to do that.
If I could breathe better, I would. If I could be wealthier, I would.
But even Superman had a vulnerability -- kryptonite -- that made him endearing.
By working with people and learning more about myself, I am discovering that this vulnerability is a beautiful part of ourselves. By not covering it up, we get re-connected with who we are.
....
If you want to get embarrassed with me, join me tomorrow for the Clutter Busting Your Life Tele-seminar this Saturday September 15th, 2012, 12-1:00 pm central time.
To register: Pay $10 via PayPal. Within 24 hours you will receive the phone number and access code to use on Saturday.
Dear Brooks, I never commented before but felt the need to express my sympathy and understanding. I recognised myself in your post. Due to health conditions my ability to walk is getting weaker and recently I had to start using a cane. Talking about visability.... I am a very private person too who loves to be invisible. Ha! I am trying to come to terms with my private nature (even better: getting over it!). Sometimes life throws you a lesson or a challenge or so it seems... Don't be embarrassed. You are not alone. Thank you for your post and for your inspiration in clutter busting. Lola M.
ReplyDeleteHi Lola, Thanks for your comment and sharing your story! The funny thing is, when I think I would rather be invisible, it turns that it's not bad being seen. It's something new that I'm starting to enjoy. Take care, Brooks
ReplyDeleteHi Brooks! I'm late in my comment on this post, but just wanted to say that your honesty is refreshing. We all have weaknesses and "embarrassing" aspects of our lives, but I like being around people who are real enough to show their truths and realities.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your support, Carrie! I like your honesty too.
ReplyDelete