Hope is a function of struggle.

One of the greatest barriers to connection is the cultural importance we place on "going it alone." Somehow we've come to equate success with not needing anyone. Many of us are willing to extend a helping hand, but we're very reluctant to reach out for help when we need it ourselves. It's as if we've divided the world into "those who offer help" and "those who need help." The truth is that we are both.

Vulnerability is not weakness, and the uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure we face every day are not optional. Our only choice is a question of engagement. Our willingness to own and engage with our vulnerability determines the depth of our courage and the clarity of our purpose; the level to which we protect ourselves from being vulnerable is a measure of our fear and disconnection.

Fear is the opposite of love, in my opinion.

Talk about your failures without apologizing.

The dark does not destroy the light; it defines it. It's our fear of the dark that casts our joy into the shadows.

I now see how owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do.