I am learning that as a fully functional (attempting) person, I need to be growing openness to experience. Have a growing openness to experience is about learning to accept the circumstances of life as they are, without needing them to be something different. It is also about stepping away from defensiveness. In this light, Defensiveness might be characterized as "self-defense in the form of righteous indignation or innocent victimhood to avoid a perceived assault".
When we feel under emotional assault or criticism, defensiveness is generally synonymous with redirecting the blame away from ourselves onto someone else. We are more receptive to what is unfolding before us as it occurs since we are less prone to react in an unconscious, knee-jerk manner. For years, I have been the brunt of the "black-sheep" jokes and discouraging remarks from family. They say the love in person, but it is the complete opposite when I am not around. It used to bother me, but it no longer does not because I have survived the worst and living the best. I do not hide my skeletons! I use them to better the environment around me.
I have won a major legal battle for my husband who will now receive the benefits and healthcare he deserves. The settlement will begin to replenish our retirements that we have used to pay for his care. I am filing another battle today against a woman stalker who claims Christ but lives in the depths of her perceived madness. I am returning my body and health back to where it should be and the bright light around me is no longer hid! I am standing up for me! This is how my growing openness has led to my experience of gratitude, courage, and strength where others perceived that I would always be the failure.
Check your strength today. Gather the growth of YOU and move through the door of expanded horizons and greatness!
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