We Are Not Meant For Shame

It hurts my heart to know how many people carry shame. People lack confidence and self worth and this world has a way of tearing people down rather than building them up. I serve in the food kitchen Tuesday and I am deeply humbled by the experiences that change me to the core. I work along side of two very kind gentleman. It was almost time to close up the kitchen when one man dropped his head and approached me in shame. As he reluctantly grabbed his plate, he spoke some words to me that broke my heart. I am not like you he said in a quiet voice. I asked what he meant and he pointed to the people in the other room and said I am one of them. I belong on their side of the serving table. If a heart breaking made a noise, you would have heard mine shatter. I took my apron off and I went into the room and joined him at the table. I sat side by side with the people whose plates I had just filled with food. There is only one table. The belief that there are two sides is a horrible lie. If I could heal one thing in all people it would be to replace their shame with confidence and self worth. We are not who others say we are. We are who God says we are.

This experience, this lesson will stay with me until I breathe my last breath. I too have felt that kind of shame. The world has pointed a finger and told me I’m not good enough, strong enough. The world tells me I am a failure, but then I remember who I really am. We are one people connected by humanity not meant to be separated into levels of worth based on our economic status, the color of our skin or the education we have or have not received. We are not meant to be judged by the way we parent or by the job we do or do not have. I am so blessed to be able to bridge the gap between the misconceptions of the world and what I know to be true in my heart. We are all created in the image of God. We are not meant to carry shame. If you have ever felt you are not good enough, I lift you up today and my heart truly goes out to you. You are enough in spite of your circumstances. You are worthy and you deserve love. I am so sorry if the world tells you anything different.

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