Being emotionally and authentically transparent is not easy nor is it convenient. I’ve been transparent in moments when I would have rather been quiet and blend into the background of a conversation. However, one thing I know for sure is if you have survived something that you thought might have killed you and you share your story, if just one person benefits from your selfless act of laying your soul bare then it is not in vain. Now I’m not saying to go around telling the world your story. Some people don’t deserve to hear your story because they would probably revel in the fact that you aren’t as put together as you portray yourself to be. However, when the right people are present it will be overwhelmingly clear that you need to speak up.
I’ve shared the story of my infertility journey at moments and in places where you wouldn’t think the topic would come up…like an administrative professional training seminar. But a funny thing happened when I did, I was approached during one of the breaks by a woman who had also battled infertility. She extended an invitation to me to share my story. In October 2013, my story along with many others will appear in the first issue of a magazine dedicated to hope and healing for women in different stages in their infertility journey. To say that I’m honored is an understatement. I am humbled and appreciative that she trusted me enough offer the invitation. The opportunity share far outweighs any fear I may have had about being judged. The opportunity presented itself because I was willing to be emotionally and authentically transparent. My definition of being emotionally and authentically transparent means speaking your truth and sharing your story without expecting anything in return.
I’ll be sure to share the link to the magazine as soon as it is published. In the meantime, don’t be afraid to share because you never know who you might help in the process.