We all have tons of ideas that we never act on, many of which have the potential to be useful to the world or helpful to an individual. And yet we stand still…
Taking action IS an act of vulnerability. No way around it. And since this is scary, we are inclined to create stories that keep us from moving ahead, even with simple things like a kind word or a supportive touch.
“What happens if people think this is stupid?”
“I don’t want to be embarrassed.”
“I don’t have time for this.”
“I don’t know how to get started.”
The wise and wonderful Canadian philosopher and Catholic social innovator Jean Vanier says that “The deepest desire for us all is to be appreciated, to be loved, to be seen as somebody of value.” And when we act on an idea that is intended to be helpful in some way, the possibility opens for us to meet this desire in others, and by virtue of doing it, address that need in ourselves.
Seems well worth the risk to me.
