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Exposure. Risk. Uncertainty. Fear. These are just some of the words that come to mind when we think of vulnerability.
Being vulnerable does not require us to be fragile or naïve. Rather, when we numb our vulnerability, we do the same to other good emotions like joy and gratitude.
So why do we try and numb vulnerability?
No one wants to expose themselves to being hurt or potentially experiencing heartbreak. But being vulnerable doesn’t equal worst-case scenario.
Rather than catastrophizing, our Buddhability allows us to appreciate how being vulnerable creates space for personal growth. If we hesitate to connect with another person out of fear of rejection, we may avoid some hurt but we’ll just become closed-off people. In the end, we’ll lose out.
Our Buddhability allows us to appreciate how being vulnerable creates space for personal growth.
By chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, we can access the limitless courage that has always existed in our life. Expanding on what happens when we chant, the Buddhist philosopher Daisaku Ikeda writes:
We awaken to the ultimate reality that our lives at their very essence are truly noble, strong and wise.
November 2021 Living Buddhism, p. 68
If we struggle with being vulnerable, not to worry. As we strengthen our Buddhability through chanting, we can develop the courage to be our most authentic selves.
Your Buddhability helps you embrace all sides of yourself.
Regardless of how others behave, the important thing is what type of person we become. If you want an extra boost of inspiration, listen to three Buddhist teenagers share their advice on dealing with social anxiety and connecting with others.
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