Last night, I enjoyed a few hours with a 5, 4, 2, and 1-year-old. My Mom and I were on kid duty, and one of the first things they wanted to do was play hide and seek. Now, playing hide and seek with a one-year-old is pretty simple. He has a favorite hiding place. We find him since he crawled into the closet right before us, and he squeals out… Let’s hide and seek again!
Now, his bigger brother, age 5, is delightful and plays hide and seek differently. He works harder to ensure he is hidden. This scene had me smiling, but I reflected on it personally today, and it felt more profound.
He was convinced he was hidden here, and we would not be able to see him. He worked hard to find the right cover and spot to hide.
It made me think about my life and the many stories I have heard from others. For many, we hold beliefs that keep us from living into our whole selves. Often, it is lies we have chosen to believe about our personality, how we are gifted, our body shape and size, or maybe our skin color, gender identity, or socio-economic status. Lies convince us that hiding is safer than taking the basket off and being seen.
Consider giving yourself the gift of truth this Christmas. Embrace the truth, accept your dignity and let your whole self be known. It will be a gift for yourself and others.
Be courageous and kind,
Trish