The Courage to Be Vulnerable: Insights from 'On the Battlefield'
I think that one of the things that we have to really look at when we're talking about walking with people, about supporting them when they are in the midst of these things, because, again, if it's real enough to mess up your life, if it's real enough to put the pressure on you, then it's real.
Ever felt like opening up is the hardest thing to do? Fr. Joseph Collins and Fr. Michael Marcantoni tackle this head-on in their latest episode of 'On the Battlefield'. They dive into what it means to be truly vulnerable, especially when you're on the path to addiction recovery. Vulnerability isn't just about sharing your feelings; it's about accepting that you can be hurt and still choosing to open up.
The hosts explore how stress and trauma can make this difficult but also how essential it is for healing. They bring in the concept of continued repentance and rigorous honesty as tools to help you embrace vulnerability. It's not just about saying sorry but about genuinely seeking to change and being honest with yourself and others. Confession, holy unction, and leaning on Christ's healing power are also discussed as crucial elements in this journey.
The episode sheds light on how addiction can often lead to a cycle of lying and resentment, making it even harder to be vulnerable. But there's hope. Support groups and the simple yet powerful prayer, 'Have mercy on me, a sinner', are highlighted as lifelines. Through their empathetic and educational approach, Fr. Joseph and Fr. Michael offer a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with addiction and the fear of opening up.