I kept my composure on the outside, but inside I was writhing. Off my tongue rolled things I promised myself I’d never share. I paused, bracing for the shock and disappointment in her reaction.
When I looked, my friend’s lips peeled back into a soft smile – the kind that says, “It’s okay.” The fear and tension pressing in on me fell to the floor like dust. And with the purest grace, my sweet friend proceeded to encourage me.
God’s design is ironic.
When we let others into the unlovely places, we make room for more beauty than we’d ever expect.
This is exactly what the Lord reminds us: “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (James 5:16a)
Revealing a broken part of me felt icky that day, like trudging through mud. Yet, a moment that could have further buried me in isolation became one of great encouragement because I chose to let her in.
I don’t want to hide in the convenience of concealing my dark spots. Even when it doesn’t feel good, I long to be real about how I’m doing with those who love me. Lord, may we not be women who cover up our troubles with niceties but women who admit hardship with courage.
Trudge through your mud with someone you trust. Something beautiful is on the other side, I promise.
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This article originally appeared at NatalieYerger.com, published with permission.
