#160of365 #FaithBites #FaithJourney

Before we get started, I was thinking about the topic for today before the passing of Anthony Bourdain. This was inspired by my self-doubt in sharing and wondering if I am annoying or if I am helping. When I saw he passed, I thought this was definitely the right message. I hope you agree. And now, onto FaithBites.

Can You Share Too Much?

I love people. I love to talk to people and learn their story. I love to share my experiences and usually don’t hold back. You want to know something, just ask and I will share.

On the plane to Las Vegas, the woman next to me started chatting with me about life in general. We talked about our kids, mental illness, teaching, wellness, politics, and pretty much everything you can think about it. It was refreshing. I didn’t hold anything back nor did she.

In my normal interactions with people, some are surprised that I talk about my struggles with mental illness, medicine, health, politics, and everything so openly. I also share if I came into work early, have a doctors appointment, what’s going on with my kids, etc.

Some think this sharing is to get attention. Some to hear myself talk. In reality, I share (and hope others share with me) to fully understand me as a person and my actions. Some may say that if you tell people you got in early, you are looking for praise. For me, it’s just showing that I am here and it explains why I may leave early. If I talk about mental illness, it’s not for a pity party, but rather to understand my actions and help them know it is ok to share their feelings and thoughts if they want to.

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” James 5:16

“Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8

Our verses for today talk about loving each other. confessing to each other, praying for each other. We are powerful through Christ. We can help each other. Your sharing may encourage someone to share with you. That person may be on the edge of a very difficult decision, they may be contemplating suicide, malicious activities, harming themselves or others, you never know. But like in Thessalonians, the disciples loved the people and cared for them as a nursing mother; sharing the gospel and their lives. This is powerful. We share the Lord and our lives with those around us. Through the Holy Spirit, we can enrich them, comfort them, and help them.

Yes, I talk a lot. I have troubles sometimes knowing when people want to listen or not. I amaze people with what I am willing to share. I know very little shame or privacy and that’s ok for me. It’s not the right fit for everyone. Find the where sharing is comfortable for you. Let someone know about you, so they can understand truly who you are. It will help explain your actions and help build deeper relationships.

Are you ready to share yourself with the world? Will you commit to sharing a new fact about yourself with someone once a week?

I am ready and willing to commit with the help of God.