avatarThalia Dunn

Summary

The web content discusses the challenges and benefits of being a loner and the importance of courage in opening up to love and connection.

Abstract

The article "Being Open to Reaching Out" delves into the solitary lifestyle, reflecting on its comforts and drawbacks. It acknowledges that while living on the sidelines can be a choice that brings a sense of familiarity, it also raises questions about the gains and losses of such a life. The piece emphasizes the need for courage to overcome the fear of vulnerability, advocating for the strength to love openly despite the risk of abandonment. It suggests that even the smallest act of reaching out can be a significant exercise of one's courage, drawing on Aristotle's wisdom that courage is foundational to other virtues. The author concludes with a personal affirmation to remain open to giving and receiving love.

Opinions

  • The author implies that being a loner can start as a series of choices but may solidify into a lifestyle that feels safe or habitual.
  • There is an acknowledgment that while solitude can be comforting, it may also lead to missing out on life's experiences.
  • The article suggests that living on the sidelines, while easier, can prevent one from fully engaging in life.
  • It is expressed that the fear of abandonment can be paralyzing, yet it is a common challenge faced by many.
  • The author believes that courage is essential to overcome the fear of being open and vulnerable in relationships.
  • The piece encourages the reader to actively exercise courage in small steps to foster connections and love.
  • The quote from Aristotle reinforces the author's opinion that courage is a prerequisite for other virtues and personal growth.
  • The author's personal affirmation indicates a desire to be receptive to healthy relationships and the bravery required to initiate and maintain them.

POETRY

Being Open to Reaching Out

Gotta be brave to live!

Photo by Evgeni Tcherkasski on Unsplash

Being a loner is a choice, happening at odd moments over the days and months until it hardens into a lifestyle where it feels comfortable or familiar.

And the payoffs? What do we gain from living on the sidelines, showing up but not playing?

How does it help and how does it hinder?

Your answer might be worded differently than mine, but a common thread unites us lone wolves sniffing around but not joining the hunt.

Courage. Or lack of it.

Sometimes, I just lack the courage to love, to be open, vulnerable to offer my heart.

But quivering in anticipated fear of abandonment saps my energy,

so I choose to flex my underused courage, tucked in the shadows of my heart,

one beat at a time reaching out, teasing myself open.

“Courage is the first of human virtues because it makes all others possible.” Aristotle

“Keep me open to receive healthy love, give me the courage to offer genuine love.”

Prompt
Poetry On Medium
Self Reflection
The Brain Is A Noodle
Connection
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