Loving Unconditionally: From Shames to Celebrations
Enjoying the roaring river in Naskusp, BC. It is our favourite place to visit and reset.
In the journey of life, we often encounter obstacles that challenge our identity and self-acceptance. One such obstacle, which I have encountered personally, is the burden of shame.
It's a weight that keeps us small, confined to what others expect us to be. For a long time, my greatest shame was knowing I was different, aware that embracing my true self could cost me family and friends. But this is a story of transformation, a story of how I learned to love my shames and turn them into celebrations.
It's a story of freedom born from love.
“Remove shame from love and choose to celebrate it”
The Weight of Shame:
Shame is a powerful force, one that can keep us from embracing our authentic selves. It held me back for years, making me feel like I needed to hide who I was. I carried the weight of shame on my shoulders, and it took a toll on my emotional well-being.
A Courageous Revelation:
The turning point in my life came when I found the courage to share my truth with my family. I decided to be honest about my love for a womxn. It was an act of vulnerability and bravery that would shape the course of my journey. Through this journey, I discovered my Two-Spirited identity, a term deeply rooted in Indigenous cultures.
It marked the beginning of my quest to reconnect with my heritage and find harmony within myself.
The Consequences:
This courageous revelation came at a price. Some of my family members, driven by deeply held religious beliefs, chose to distance themselves from me. The emotional turmoil was undeniable, but it was only the beginning of a transformative process.
Love as a Transformative Power:
My deep and unwavering love for my wife became a catalyst for self-acceptance. It allowed me to see my past through a different lens. Instead of dwelling on the pain of lost relationships, I started to focus on the love that blossomed.
The Healing Journey:
The journey toward self-acceptance and love wasn't easy. It involved a deep process of healing, introspection, and learning to love myself for who I truly am. This journey was ultimately about finding freedom, not from the opinions of others but from the judgments I placed on myself.
It's a story of breaking free from the societal norms that held me back.
Encouragement and Empowerment:
Today, I find joy in sharing my story, in celebrating the beautiful life I've built with my wife and daughter. I've shifted from viewing my past with sorrow to seeing it as a source of inspiration and strength.
To those struggling with their own shames and identities, I say this: embrace your authentic self, for in doing so, you'll discover the freedom and celebration that comes with it.
Love is the key to this transformation. It's a journey that empowers you to be your true self, regardless of external expectations.
As I look back on my journey from shame to celebration, I'm reminded that love is an infinite source that has the power to transform our shames into celebrations. The obstacle lies within the journey itself, waiting to be turned into a source of strength and empowerment.
Embrace your authentic self and find the freedom to live your life unapologetically.
An Invitation for Self Reflection
I invite you to share your stories and reflections on embracing your authentic self. Your journey can inspire others to find their own path to celebration. If you're seeking support or information, please explore the resources available in your community.
