“In a futile attempt to erase our past, we deprive the community of our healing gift. If we conceal our wounds out of fear and shame, our inner darkness can neither be illuminated nor become a light for others.”

― Brennan Manning, Abba’s Child: The Cry of the Heart for Intimate Belonging

I recently came across a used copy of Brennan Manning’s book in one of the Little Free Library kiosks near my office. His beautifully written book addresses the pain, brokenness and shame we carry within – the shroud around our hearts that leave us isolated from the unconditional love and healing God offers.

I sometimes fall into the trap of thinking I have to “fix” myself and get it all together in order to offer anything of value to the world. It’s hard to sit with my own soul wound and see how that can be of benefit to anyone. If I’m suffering, how I can help others ease their own suffering?

What I’ve found from working as a healer, teacher and life coach is that my brokenness becomes itself a gift of acceptance, love and compassion I can offer others. If I did not struggle, suffer, or feel fear or shame, I would not be brave enough to hold sacred space for other people to acknowledge and touch the broken parts of their own hearts that ache for God’s love and healing.

Each time I see the light within others ignite during their healing journey, the darkness and hurt I carry my own heart lightens too.