The Death of Survival

“When we accept [our need for others] we can behave truthfully in our neediness, or we can continue to defend and pretend, which requires old survival behavior and counterfeit fulfillment.” -Chip Dodd

Although survival behaviors were a necessity for most of my life, I finally had come to a crossroads of having to choose to face my fears or remain on the survival path which had only provided me with superficial and shallow relationships, a counterfeit fulfillment indeed. 

Understanding and recognizing this weakness has been the beginning of new found strength.  I won’t deny the fact that facing my fears of raw authenticity has been as scary as walking naked through a large crowd.  Surrendering to vulnerability is a conscious, willful mindset I replay in my mind throughout the day.  The reality is that control, a true illusion, prevents us from growing, changing, and transforming into who we really are meant to be.  It is the cage that does not allow the bird that exists in us to freely fly in its own natural habitat.  

Disappointments are always going to exist if we want fullness of life.  Guarding myself will not allow others to enter.  I must continue to liberate my mind, my soul, my entire being to experience the richness of what can come from letting go of fear, hurt, or perfection.

March 2011