In this episode, Alan and Michelle talk about "masks." While we may wear masks in celebration, for fun, and to be safe. Masks that we wear for our hearts may keep us safe until they don’t. Vulnerability empowers us to drop the mask and let our light shine.

“Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are.” (The Gifts of Imperfection, Brene Brown, Pg. 50)

Triggers to Mask Up:
1.Fear of rejection
2.External pressures
3.Lack of self-awareness
4.Self-doubt
5.Internalized messages

Dropping the Masks and Bushels
-Spiritual living is one of subtraction
-Masks are worn for different reasons, physical and otherwise
-Hiding our true selves can become the norm and prevent us from expressing ourselves fully. They can become our identity which is NOT our authentic self.
-Hiding our light keeps us stuck in the past and from experiencing connection and intimacy

Examples of Masks We May Wear:

1. Hiding our true feelings and emotions – presenting a false front to the world and stuffing our anger or sadness so others don’t see it. I’m OK when I’m not OK.
2. Pretending to be someone you're not.
3. Avoiding conflict - Avoiding any disagreements or uncomfortable situations. Staying quiet when someone is mistreating you of not speaking up when you disagree
4. People-pleasing - prioritize the needs and desires of others over their own. Saying Yes when you don’t want to or sacrificing yourself to be accommodating
5. Keeping secrets - People often keep secrets from others, whether it's because they're ashamed of something or because they fear being judged.  When we are not fully honest and transparent with others, it can lead to feelings of guilt and disconnection.

Means to Dropping the Masks
-Vulnerability is the path!

Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.” - Brené Brown, Daring Greatly

- Courageously allowing hidden parts of ourselves to be seen
-Feeling our feelings and clarifying our boundaries
-Practicing being vulnerable and becoming less sensitive to the opinions of others

Affirmation: "I have the courage to be vulnerable and let my light shine"

Join us each week for conversations about practical spirituality where Alan Vukas and Michelle Wadleigh welcome a cast of spiritual teachers and authors to discuss spiritual, mental and emotional tools to live your au

Join Alan Vukas and Michelle Wadleigh every Wednesdays at 12PM Eastern for conversations about practical spirituality on our Facebook Livestream

Your Co-Hosts:

Michelle Wadleigh:
Planned Happiness Institute
Center for Spiritual Living North Jersey

Alan Vukas:
New Thought, New Life - Alan's Writing and Reflections
Concordia Center for Spiritual Living

Other Resources:
Centers for Spiritual Living
Science of Mind magazine

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thelivingoutloudshow.substack.com