In Praise of Flaws!

We all have flaws and imperfections. Yet, we are often intent on covering them up. Doing this is so self-eradicating. And exhausting.

What about just letting yourself be, flaws and all? Not in a weak, “I’m so messed up” kind of way, but in a strong, compassionate, “This is me─beautiful as is” kind of way. Loving yourself, accepting yourself as good enough, as you are, right now.

So, here’s the challenge:

For the next 2 weeks, stop trying to cover up your flaws. No defending, arguing or hiding them. Just let them be there. Admit to them in a compassionate, self-curious way.

The first thing you’ll discover is how powerful this feels. The second thing you’ll notice is how the lack of resistance creates a flow for new things to happen. I‘ll give you a personal example.

Many years ago, a friend accused me of being jealous. She was developing a friendship with another person and I felt jealous. At first, I denied what I was feelings, then I simply fessed up. Yes, I WAS jealous. I remember the internal freedom that came from that admission. Once I had crossed this threshold, the conversation with this friend became real and caring and after that, we were able to be much more considerate of each other. The friendship became stronger than ever.

So, whatever flaw you’re trying to cover up, see if you can just let it be there. If you feel vulnerable, let that vulnerability be there too. The Course in Miracles says that vulnerability is our greatest strength. I agree. It’s a strength because it’s real. And being real is powerful.

And once you’re real, then you’ve entered the arena of self-growth. For our flaws are our biggest teachers. They are there to help us evolve. Let them do their work.