On Being Vulnerable

I have always been a very open person. I’ve never had a problem sharing my heart with others. But after entering the blog and social media world and putting my life out there for others to read and see, it has definitely made me feel vulnerable. Many times, I want to crawl in a hole after hitting ‘publish’ on a blog post. In fact, that is how I feel about this post. There is something about feeling extremely vulnerable that makes me uncomfortable. Whether I am sharing about our infertility journey or something not so important like a recent vacation, it often feels like a one-way relationship and I have found over the years I don’t do well with those. I feel like I’m putting my heart on the line, but what am I getting in return from others?

What are people thinking? How were the posts conveyed? Do people even care? And, if they don’t care, does that matter? Was the post regarding the scripture even accurate to God’s word? Was the latest fertility update scrutinized and frowned down upon since we aren’t doing what the ‘world’ tells us we should? What about the fact that we enjoy eating healthy and avoiding yucky chemicals – do people think we are crazy ‘crunchy’ people?

Unless a comment is left, than I have no idea what others are thinking. I don’t know who my audience is or who has read the posts. When meeting up with a group of friends, walking into church, or seeing family members I can’t help but feeling exposed. The feeling is mutual whether it’s in person or behind a computer. I have now shared 443 posts. Some are way more revealing than others, but either way, I feel like I have shared intimate details about our lives. I’ve shared about the good and the bad. I’ve shared with strangers all over the world and I’ve shared with some of my very best friends.

I have put a lot out there that most people wouldn’t. In fact, many don’t even tell their closest friend or family members. Everyone knows my desire to be a mom. Everyone knows we have been waiting 3+ years for babies. Everyone knows what many don’t or won’t share – the real life struggle of infertility. This isn’t fun for me. This isn’t the path I would have chosen. I don’t enjoy being ‘that’ girl who is still waiting to become a mother. I hate being looked at differently by others. I hate that some friends won’t even talk about it with me. I hate that some people know my struggle, but I don’t know theirs. I don’t like being vulnerable.

But, then I realize it’s not about me. It’s not about me being ’embarrassed’ about my lack of writing skills. It’s not about me and what I said or didn’t say. It’s not about how people view me since we haven’t conceived yet. It’s not about the trial we are going through. It’s not about me sharing my struggles while others keep quiet with theirs. It doesn’t matter how vulnerable and exposed I feel. What matters is the Lord put this blog on my heart for a reason and that I continue to share His word. What matters is that people feel encouraged. What matters is that the gospel gets shared. What matters is that hope is renewed and faith is increased.

It’s not about me. It’s about Him. If sharing my struggles and heart encourages one person to know they are not alone on their journey, then it’s worth it. If you are reading this, then thanks for following along. Thanks for commenting, supporting, believing and praying. Thanks for allowing me to share my heart, my struggle, my pain and allowing me to be vulnerable. The prayers, comments, and encouragement mean more than I can ever convey and for those who have continued to stand by our side, we are forever grateful. In addition to Jesus and scripture, you are what gets us through on the hard days. At the end of the day, I hope through at least one of my posts I have been able to convey what really matters – which is HIM!

On Being Vulnerable - In Due TIme Blog

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83 Comments
  • Andi
    Posted at 05:57h, 10 July Reply

    it’s all about Him – and we always have to be careful with social media these days

  • Nickie Creutzmann
    Posted at 06:26h, 10 July Reply

    I can’t tell you how many times I have read your post and it has been exactly what the Lord was speaking to me. I have often thought I should comment but didn’t take the time. You are so precious and, just as Jesus laid down His life, your vulnerability is a reflection of Him. Your faith and endurance encourages me to keep believing and trusting Him for the promises in my own life. I love you!

  • Jessica
    Posted at 07:37h, 10 July Reply

    girl, you are awesome. I love your passion, persistence and faith. Keep strong and keep sharing his glory that is all around. Xoxo

  • Roxanne
    Posted at 08:00h, 10 July Reply

    I believe it is Satan who wants to paralyze us in the fear, keeping us from vulnerability. Vulnerability is how we truly live and learn to love one another.
    Thanks for your heart. I love reading your posts.

  • Melanie Redd
    Posted at 08:04h, 10 July Reply

    Thank you for being willing to share your heart!

    I believe God is using you to encourage many people. He has used you to encourage me! (This is the second time this week I’ve been linked up with you on one of the blog linkups)!

    I think this line is so true, ” If sharing my struggles and heart encourages one person to know they are not alone on their journey, then it’s worth it.”

    Guess what! You’ve encouraged one person today! It is worth it!

    Hope you will have a blessed day~
    (I came over on Faith and Fellowship)
    Melanie

  • Christine Smith
    Posted at 08:05h, 10 July Reply

    Vulnerability has great power, I think, because the enemy wants us to keep our struggles and sins hidden. When we are open and honest, we are working against darkness.

  • Becky
    Posted at 08:15h, 10 July Reply

    Thank you for being vulnerable Caroline! It’s hard to do, especially in a public forum. Thanks for not letting fear take over and pushing through to write, even when the topic isn’t fun. Glad God has chosen to use your blog as a ministry to others! And I’m glad to have connected with at least one other woman who isn’t doing things the way to world tells you to, that alone is major encouragement to my heart. 🙂

  • Biana @Blovedboston
    Posted at 08:45h, 10 July Reply

    I think the fact that you put it all out there and are so vulnerable is the reason people come to read and really resonate with your posts! xo, Biana –BlovedBoston

  • Amie
    Posted at 08:50h, 10 July Reply

    Caroline, you have an amazing gift!! You are able to share God’s word like few others I have come in contact with. Everyone is entitled to take whatever path they choose and whatever path they feel they are being led. When your babies make their debut it will be all for God’s glory and that is a complete miracle. I continue to pray for those babies to come sooner than later 🙂 hugs

  • Elisha
    Posted at 08:50h, 10 July Reply

    I love this so much because your thoughts have been my thoughts and I have thought about writing a post regarding this very same topic manner. But I just couldn’t find the words. So thank you for writing what my heart has been saying. Love you my friend! And thank you for being vulnerable.

  • Aerin
    Posted at 08:53h, 10 July Reply

    Love this! Thank you for sharing. It’s helped me more than I can express in words, and I’m so thankful to have “met” you through your blog.

  • Jolleen Ruiz
    Posted at 09:03h, 10 July Reply

    You have encouraged more than one person today just by reading the comments. Thank you for being open and sharing! Really enjoyed reading.

  • Jessi | LifeAbundant-Blog.com
    Posted at 09:22h, 10 July Reply

    I’m so glad that you blog and share your story – I look forward to your posts. It really is hard to be so transparent… sometimes I’m flat out embarrassed. When I shared my story on Fertility Authority and then shared the link on my PERSONAL Facebook, I wanted to crawl into a hole and die. It’s one thing to share with people I don’t know and who are going through the same journey… it’s another to share with people you KNOW and who aren’t on the same journey. I was overwhelmed with the positive response from people on my personal Facebook. I half expected people to feel awkward and not share it… and yet, they’re sharing it. Sometimes when we share our stories, it not only helps those going through the same thing, but it helps educate others and spread the word. While social media has caused a lot of hurt, it also creates a lot of blessings. Your sharing of scripture and how the Lord works in your life may be the ONLY exposure to Christ that some people receive. Keep pressing on, sister!

  • Dayne
    Posted at 09:44h, 10 July Reply

    Vulnerability is a beautiful part of life and relationships. It is not a bad thing at all!

  • Heather
    Posted at 09:44h, 10 July Reply

    Wonderful thoughts! I am very open as well, and blogging definitely opens you up to opinions about you as a person that aren’t always accurate, and can be incredibly hurtful. But, we only have to realize how much He loves us, and what all the others may say really doesn’t matter in the grand scheme of things!

  • Rebecca Jo
    Posted at 10:16h, 10 July Reply

    It is a scary thing opening yourself up to everyone… but what you’ve done is open yourself up for others to see Jesus. 🙂 Feel good about that lady!

  • Nina @ Flowers in my Hair
    Posted at 10:28h, 10 July Reply

    I really struggle with vulnerability in REAL life. But I love how you connect it to God. Taste and see that the Lord is good and share it with others…letting others in to every season…I commend you. And I am working on it.

  • CHELSEA
    Posted at 10:42h, 10 July Reply

    I love you friend. I am so proud that you are remaining obedient in sharing, even though it is so vulnerable … I am certain God is so proud of the glory you are giving him!! XOXOX!

  • Amanda
    Posted at 10:42h, 10 July Reply

    It’s hard to be vulnerable, especially on the internet and blogs where people can just pop in and out and you don’t know if they’re reading or if they care or what they’re thinking. But you’re so right that even if one person is encouraged, it’s worth it! Thanks for always being so honest and encouraging to all of us 🙂

  • Winter
    Posted at 11:10h, 10 July Reply

    I totally get this!….and it is all about Him. All about His glory, and if our transparent vulnerability brings it, praise Him!

  • Nelly
    Posted at 12:12h, 10 July Reply

    I think your blog is beautiful! I think it is good for us to be open/ honest about real life and our faith. Your blog ministers to many. And I do understand feeling vulnerable, I feel that way too. May our vulnerability be used for God’s glory.

  • Charoltte
    Posted at 12:14h, 10 July Reply

    You have such a way with words and always know how to bring the focus back to God. I love that about your blog.
    I very much struggle with the anger side of infertility. I know I’m learning and growing and a better person because of this journey, but recently I had taken a step away from reading my daily devotionals. this blog helps remind me that I’m not alone.
    I’m back to reading my devotionals as well. I always feel better when I do.

  • Tania
    Posted at 12:15h, 10 July Reply

    Thank you so much for sharing your heart. You’re bringing to light what the enemy tries to make people feel alone and isolated and ashamed about. You are being an obedient servant. I am really proud of you!!!!

  • Amber
    Posted at 13:53h, 10 July Reply

    This is a good one, Caroline! I often have the same struggle wondering if I really should be sharing everything that I do. But if God is glorified somehow, it’s all worth it to be vulnerable. Thanks for sharing!

  • Jelli
    Posted at 14:23h, 10 July Reply

    People appreciate sincerity and open hearts. Sure, you’ll be judged for what you share (or don’t) but people are constantly judging us no matter what we do. Keep on letting your heart out- it’s the real way to connect to others.

  • Stephanie
    Posted at 14:28h, 10 July Reply

    Use your vulnerability to empower yourself!

  • Marie
    Posted at 14:41h, 10 July Reply

    Sharing your troubles, trials and issues gives others the courage to take the next step. thanks for giving the gift of courage

  • Caitlyn
    Posted at 14:46h, 10 July Reply

    I loved reading this. I’m am still fairly new to blogging and haven’t felt comfortable enough to put myself out there. I just blogged about something slightly more personal than I ever have before and felt many of these same feelings. I want to get to the point of really blogging about my true feelings but getting to that point isnt easy!

  • Krystal
    Posted at 15:24h, 10 July Reply

    I love this post. I often feel the same way about writing in my blog – I share so much with complete strangers, more than I tell my friends or family because I believe that there is a gift to be shared in letting people know that they are not alone. You are such an inspiration, and your openness is helping more people than you realize!

  • Sarah
    Posted at 18:14h, 10 July Reply

    Oh my goodness I LOVE this. I too feel so exposed when I write certain posts. It’s the vulnerability that is scary but even so for me the accountability that comes with publishing your goals and hopes for the world to see. I love this perspective that you have on all of it, and you are such a REAL blogger and I am forever grateful! When I think of a truly authentic blogger, you’re one of the ones that come to mind. And for the record, I think it is inspiring that you guys aren’t necessarily doing what the world says to do in terms of fertility and you definitely are not a crazy “crunchy” person in my book.

  • Marissa
    Posted at 18:22h, 10 July Reply

    This is one of the hardest “die to self” aspects for me. I crave the attention, much like an addict it seems. And yet I know it’s not what I need. I have not been called to write for myself, but for Him and He will find an audience, but often I think it’s because He needs to tell me something…

    I think you’re doing a wonderful job of walking along side Him and allowing your life to shine. Thank you for sharing with all of us.

    Marissa

  • Brandi @ penguinsinpink.com
    Posted at 18:58h, 10 July Reply

    Caroline, I appreciate your vulnerability. I have a cousin struggling with infertility right now but I never realized it because she never told me. I only found out recently because she had a miscarriage and I reached out to her because I had one a few months ago. Your posts have given me things to talk to her about and pray for her and you too.

  • Melissa Garman
    Posted at 19:14h, 10 July Reply

    I love the authenticity of this post. I completely relate with how you feel.. I blog about Jesus, post my posts on my Facebook, and 90% of my fb friends are unbelievers! Some days I wonder if I will even be able to reach anybody. However, I firmly believe everyone who comes to your site genuinely does care! Your story is inspiring and you have strength that truly comes from God and shines through your words. God bless and have an amazing day!

  • Renee
    Posted at 19:36h, 10 July Reply

    I think you’re brave for sharing what most people would hide. I think vulnerable people are the strongest people, because they allow other people to empathize with them as well as for the reader to heal if they are going through the same thing.

    <3

  • Mindy
    Posted at 21:37h, 10 July Reply

    I SO appreciate your openess and it has helped me so much on my journey! I’m really bad about commenting bc the app I use to read blogs it’s hard to comment… But I am following along and pray for you often! I tried to start a blog about our infertility once and the first post was so negative so I deleted it lol. It’s hard work and am thankful for all you put into it! Xoxo

  • Tomeca Exum-Johnson
    Posted at 09:15h, 11 July Reply

    I can completely relate to how you feel. When God asked me to “Live Out Loud” as He called it I was TOTALLY against it. Absolutely not. I was so private. This is my life. HA! SERIOUSLY!!! My life? I have NO LIFE apart from HIM… I didn’t want to share me with anyone. I NEVER wanted anyone to read what I wrote. That was between me and God. Our secret. I was upset when He asked me to share the intimate times I only shared with Him. And He spoke these words to me, “What you expose the devil can not use against you”. The enemy hides in the darkness. Caroline God has you exposed but not naked. He has you covered. Your words are reaching more people than you will ever know. You are shining a light in a dark place. Exposing and shining the glorious light of the gospel on infertility. You are a blessing. Grace and Peace be multiplied to you.

  • Melissa
    Posted at 09:37h, 11 July Reply

    I relate to this post SO much!! It is truly scary to be so vulnerable, and everytime I publish one of my posts about infertility, I want to crawl in a hole, too! Especially when i post the link on my personal facebook! For a long time I was private about my infertility. I blogged about it sometimes but barely touched on it, and at the time the only people who knew about my blog were either SUPER close friends that knew a little about what we were facing, OR strangers. But after my miscarriage, i wanted to share, so i wrote my story & put the link on FB. I wanted to die. Haha. But the outpouring of love and support was insane. Now i won’t stop telling my story, or what God is doing through it. I find that I get a lot of support and a lot of people saying my writing touched their life. I know you get the same. 🙂 That makes it all worth it, because you know God is working through it!

    It is still hard. And there are a LOT of people that don’t comment ever on anything infertility related. Even family & people that are supposed to be close friends. Nothing. What’s hard for me is wondering why they say nothing. Is it because they think negatively about my infertility journey (like “if only she did this, she’d get pregnant”)? I wonder if they think if i lost more weight i would get pregnant or if they think if i really had faith i wouldn’t pursue treatments. But I try to not worry about what I don’t know and just follow His leading. It’s my infertility walk…they’re not going through it and they don’t know how He is leading me.

    I felt so vulnerable last week and was sharing that with my support group leader, and this is what she texted back to me: Vulnerability is a hard place to be. But it’s a precious place to be too. When you can be so vulnerable in God’s presence and trust Him – fully – it can be scary. But He’s a good good Father who won’t abuse that trust. He seldom works like we expect Him to. But He works and He works beautifully in vulnerability.

    Thought that was good! SO encouraged by your blog & SO glad we have met through the internet! 🙂

  • Dawn
    Posted at 10:01h, 11 July Reply

    I love this. Vulnerability is such a human aspect. We all feel it as some point. To answer your questions, at least for me, I love what you share. I don’t think you’re crazy at all for not doing treatments. We each have to do what we feel is best for our family. I don’t think you’re a crunchy granola person because you eat healthy and workout, heck, I wish I lived near you so I could eat and work out with you. Maybe it would get me on track, lol. I love what you say about the scripture, because I am not great at figuring out what the Bible is trying to tell me and you put it in laymen terms that is easy for me to get and think about it. Simply put, I think you’re a wonderful writer, an Amazing person and your Faith in Him is an inspiration to me.

  • Kandi
    Posted at 10:47h, 11 July Reply

    I have always said the best blog is one where the writer is true to themselves. And you do exactly that. It is a breath of fresh air among all the coupons, giveaways, perfectly dressed, perfectly made. I honestly prefer a blog that is real like this than a blog where the person appears to never have anything go wrong in their life. It makes it easier to relate to and to read.

  • Laura Thomas
    Posted at 13:19h, 11 July Reply

    This is my first visit to your site (popped in from Me, Coffee & Jesus) and I’m really glad I did.Your openness and honesty is beyond refreshing, and yes, it’s hard to be vulnerable. It’s uncomfortable. But I’m pretty sure you would be surprised at how many readers are encouraged by your words, and in turn, God’s Word. You may never know how many seeds of hope you have sown with your vulnerability, but it IS worth it. So thank you 🙂 And keep writing…

  • Síochána Arandomhan
    Posted at 19:02h, 11 July Reply

    I hear you about the vulnerable part. There is so much nastiness online. I don’t know you in real life, but on your blog you come across as a caring person with a lot of character. 🙂 Both the online and offline world need such people to counteract the nasty stuff. I hope you only get positive feedback. But even not it’s not you, it’s the other person who chooses to be that way.

  • Rhonda
    Posted at 20:43h, 11 July Reply

    I really appreciate you writing and sharing this post, Caroline! Thanks for your honesty.

  • Chari
    Posted at 21:18h, 11 July Reply

    Thanks for sharing! I often feel this way before or while writing a post. Am I being too open? I’m a very private person by nature so this is a work in progress!

  • Betsy
    Posted at 21:27h, 11 July Reply

    I can relate! Thank you for sharing your heart and your story and truth from God’s word!

  • Kaycie
    Posted at 11:41h, 12 July Reply

    thank you for being so open and sharing your heart! vulnerability is one of the most difficult things to swallow in life, and I am so happy that you are embracing it! lovely post! thank you for sharing!

  • Brandy
    Posted at 12:21h, 12 July Reply

    amen! Yes to all of this!! Your faith and waiting has been such an encouragement to me. This blog is one of the first I went to after deciding treatments weren’t for us! One thing I’ve found too is that more people in my life will share with me their struggles because ours has been so out in the open. It’s been awesome to be able to pray so specifically for te hurting hearts around me! Love you sister! Thanks for being vulnerable all for His glory!

  • chelsea
    Posted at 14:03h, 12 July Reply

    Beautiful post, Caroline! I think sometimes we forget how it’s about Him and not us. And that it’s okay to be vulnerable.

  • Nicole @ Three 31
    Posted at 15:31h, 12 July Reply

    Hi Caroline, this is my first time visiting your blog (saw your link on The Peony Project) and, while I do not have experience with infertility, I share your vulnerabilities associated with blogging and personal struggles. Last month, I completed my first blog series, “30 Days of Manna,” where I connected my unhealthy eating habits to Scripture. I’ve been overweight my entire life, it’s a constant struggle but I am reminded that my physical health plays an important part of my spiritual well-being. I learned a lot about myself last month, some good and some bad. I believe the TWO most important words one human can say to another human who’s struggling are ME TOO. You are not alone! I know what it feels like to be an island and seem alone in a big crowd. I don’t know your situation or full story, and I definitely don’t know what your future holds, but I believe God holds our future and He is, ultimately, in control if we will trust and obey Him. Prayers for you on this journey, and I’m glad to have found your blog.

    Blessings,
    Nicole @ Three 31

    30 Days of Manna — https://nicoleandkevin.wordpress.com/?s=30+days+of+manna

  • Rebecca
    Posted at 16:12h, 12 July Reply

    I know I already said this to you, but I definitely LOVED this post!! I actually re-read it right before I pushed “publish” on a very vulnerable post that I wrote today! Hugs friend!

  • Nathana Clay
    Posted at 16:24h, 12 July Reply

    Vulnerability is so hard. I strive to be open and vulnerable with others, both on the blog and in real life. But it is so hard because it can lead to rejection. I appreciate you addressing this subject and committing to it.

  • Jennifer T.
    Posted at 00:30h, 13 July Reply

    I am reading and enjoying your posts. You are so strong and faithful and often remind me of areas that I should be focused on or doing better. Thank you for being vulnerable. I know I often feel the same when I post things… does anyone care? Who is really reading this? Is there someone in my “real” life reading this on the down low? But for different reasons, I have kept posting too (although not as much now). Again, thank you for always sharing with me and everyone. I have always enjoyed reading 🙂

  • jody
    Posted at 06:29h, 13 July Reply

    Thanks for posting Caroline. You & being vulnerable is what encouraged me to start my blog. I tried to hide for many many years how infertility had robed me not only of having babies naturally, but of enjoying my marriage, my life & my relationship with Christ. So, please keep being vulnerable and keep opening up about your life -good & bad because it is helping people. And, just think, when you do get pregnant, or adopt or both you’ll have a ton of people rejoicing with you.

  • Amberly
    Posted at 08:57h, 13 July Reply

    I totally agree with what you said about your vulnerability helping other people! I shared my miscarriage experience on the blog last year and not only was it so freeing to me, but so many people told me that it was exactly what they needed to read, to know that they weren’t alone in their feelings.

  • aimee fauci
    Posted at 09:09h, 13 July Reply

    You never know who you are helping with your words, wisdom and honesty about what you are facing in your life.

  • cuteheads
    Posted at 09:36h, 13 July Reply

    You are so brave to share your struggles and your journey with everyone. Infertility is a terrible thing to go through alone, I’m sure having this platform helps to feel not so alone as you’re going through it.

    xo,
    Esther
    http://blog.cuteheads.com

  • Alicia
    Posted at 10:07h, 13 July Reply

    I SO needed this reminder today! I struggle with putting myself out there with my writing for fear of being vulnerable and what others will think!

  • Ursula
    Posted at 14:55h, 13 July Reply

    There are moments in my Christian life that I struggle with my vulnerability esp. life experiences that I didn’t ask or plan and it is difficult to talk to those in the Christ life that never, ever been touched!! But I trust in God and I know that I can be opened with Him and I have several friends that that I can trust!

    Ursula aka Blueridge Beauty

  • Elle Spann
    Posted at 19:42h, 13 July Reply

    thanks for opening up- you are correct!! You never know how He will use you:)
    Elle
    Southern Elle Style

  • jennifer prod
    Posted at 09:09h, 14 July Reply

    you have such a beautiful heart. your blog has definitely helped & inspired me <3

  • Wendy
    Posted at 17:40h, 14 July Reply

    Caroline, this is my first time visiting your blog; I found you at#WordsWithWinter and I see why you were one of her features this week! I completely understand what you are saying about vulnerability. No matter what I am posting, whenever my hand hovers over the “publish” button, I feel shaky. If it is particularly personal, I sometimes actually feel sick. I want to read more of your blog, however, because I what I like about this post is precisely your vulnerability.

    As for your infertility struggles, I understand that, too. I do have one daughter (she is almost 19), and though we waited a while for her, we were never able to have other children. It took many, many years and a whole lot of prayer before I was able to reconcile my will with His over this. I pray that He will give you your heart’s desire where it comes to your family, Caroline. Thank you for “putting it out there” and sharing your heart so openly.

  • Finley
    Posted at 21:48h, 14 July Reply

    SO awesome caroline and so many sentiments you wrote there I feel too….but then a lot of those times that I feel vulnerable and unsure of writing something, there are also the other times I feel happy, pleased and excited that something has resonated with me so much i have to write it down!

    Those are good moments too! Its so much about the good moments than those feelings of doubt or vulnerability! But i hear you – its so strange sometimes when friends say something that I know i have only written online or posted somewhere, yet they haven’t commented on it or ‘liked’ it – but they still KNOW! Its pretty freaky sometimes.

    But we know who is at the forefront of our blogs, and that is the most important part 🙂

  • Jennifer | The Deliberate Mom
    Posted at 19:04h, 17 July Reply

    I needed this so much today Caroline! Once again your posts have blessed me.

    This past week, a post I wrote about the lessons I learned from parenting through Post Traumatic Stress Disorder was published on a large site. I wrote the post as a “closing” to that part of my life and I wrote it as encouragement for those who might struggle with PTSD themselves. I made myself vulnerable and I was pounced on. I’ve never encountered so much hate and hurt from others in all my life. It was disheartening to say the least.

    This experience has made me nervous about publishing on other platforms and aside from having a post going up on another site on August 1st, I am stepping back and praying about future writing opportunities. Perhaps the Lord wants me sharing on different sites… I don’t know. Whatever it is though, it does need to give Him all the glory. I am his hands and feet.

    Anyway, here you share a post about vulnerability and I just had to nod along. You touched my heart and a very sensitive nerve with this post. You are a blessing friend!

    Thanks for sharing (and for linking up to the #SHINEbloghop).

    Wishing you a lovely weekend.
    xoxo

  • Tess
    Posted at 20:16h, 18 July Reply

    You are a very brave person in sharing your infertility struggles and other personal things online. I always admire people like you. It definitely takes a lot of courage, but I agree it is all for Him. You are helping others that may be going through the same things.

  • sherill
    Posted at 02:17h, 22 July Reply

    Hi, thanks for sharing a beautiful and very sincere post. Just continue doing so, it is very inspiring and I definitely agree that sharing the gospel will continuously give hope and increase faith for everyone. Great Post!

  • Laura
    Posted at 23:49h, 22 July Reply

    Thank you for being vulnerable. I had started a blog when our journey began. I have only shared it with close friends and felt a very one way type of relationship. It’s hard when you spill it all and friends just won’t even touch he subject or send a text asking how you’re doing while you’re going through an Ivf cycle. So thanks… Thanks for putting into words everything that’s in my own mind. And it is about Him.

  • Rachel
    Posted at 06:21h, 23 July Reply

    Caroline – thank you for sharing this post! I always feel very vulnerable when I blog, and because so many don’t comment it can be overwhelming to wonder if anyone at all reads your words and are you making a difference. I am a small, quiet blog but I’m glad to hear a bigger more we’ll know blogger has these feelings. Makes me feel less alone. Much like you constantly make me feel with your kind, beautiful posts – less alone and greatly comforted. Thank you for always sharing!

  • Marielle
    Posted at 10:04h, 23 July Reply

    Yes! It’s like you read my mind! Thanks for sharing this. I loved it! -Marielle | http://www.theResplendent.com

  • Annie
    Posted at 10:12h, 23 July Reply

    Thank you for sharing this, it really spoke to my heart, my hubby and I are just starting this journey, but with some of my health issues, I fear that it will be a long,hard journey. Thank you! – Annie @ plussizetodownsized.blogspot.com

  • Hannah K.
    Posted at 10:13h, 23 July Reply

    I completely agree – my biggest challenge as a Christian is to bring it back to Jesus. To not be overcome with materialism, greed and jealousy as a fashion blogger. I have my husband to thank for being my spiritual leader and keeping me focused on what is really important in life.

  • Ashley
    Posted at 11:00h, 23 July Reply

    YES! That’s all. Just yes. (And me too.) ?

  • Cristina @Faithfully Social
    Posted at 14:25h, 23 July Reply

    I think the overwhelming number of comments you’ve received on this post are a testament to your light shining for others to see – even if that light is too bright for you to look at head on. You are making a difference in the lives of others, whether you can see it tangibly or not. Your faith in God (mine too as a blogger) tells me that. God bless you and you’re on my prayer list (hope that’s ok!)

  • Lauren English
    Posted at 20:46h, 23 July Reply

    There’s a pretty good chance I’ve already commented on this, but I just saw your link on the Peony Project and decided to click over. I LOVE this and I so agree. Vulnerability is how we grow and develop community, and sharing the hard parts of our stories has such power to encourage other people and remind them they’re not alone either. I love your heart to share in your blog and hope you always keep sharing!

  • Laura @ Making Baby Provence
    Posted at 11:53h, 06 August Reply

    Just know, I always care.
    I always enjoy your posts.
    I admire your faith to be able to wait for God’s promises.
    I strive to be more ‘crunchy,’ if that’s what others are calling it.
    I always enjoy your perspective on God’s word.
    I learn a lot from you.
    I am repeatedly encouraged by you.
    I appreciate you.

    I feel the same way, though. I think these same things every time I post a new entry.

    You’re doing a wonderful thing for the TTC community and for God’s kingdom. I think it’s awesome how you put His word out there for the world to see. I love you, sweet friend!

  • Amy
    Posted at 11:05h, 21 August Reply

    Although I am also childfree because I could not conceive naturally, I was OK that I am not going to be a mom. To be honest, it still stings when I hear, “you don’t know how tired you get with a newborn” or something like that. Like, don’t remind me that I can’t have kids-I’m OK with what is meant to be and my life is really full without kids. I admire your strength. I wonder what women said to infertile women in previous generations. I think we need to accept people’s choices and support each other as women.

  • Shann Eva
    Posted at 13:18h, 21 August Reply

    I know it’s scary to be open and vulnerable, but it’s so important to be honest. It’s also so important that you’re sharing your journey. You will help so many people, and I’m glad you realize what an impact you can make. Thank you!

  • Lauren English
    Posted at 10:43h, 22 August Reply

    Sooo I think I might have already commented on this a while back but it is worth a second look. I feel the same way when I share about things in my marriage, and I try to remember that I feel so strongly called to share my story so other women can be encouraged. Your voice and your vulnerability are beautiful and I’m so grateful for how you combine your story with God’s word to encourage and inspire other women. Thank you for your vulnerability!

  • Valere
    Posted at 12:23h, 30 August Reply

    Oh how I relate to your words. When I was going through infertility I searched Christian books and the internet for comfort, searching for someone like me. Someone who understood the pain, the well meaning comments that hurt, the longing in my heart. May God grant you peace and hope on your journey. My heart is sensitive to all those who walk in infertility.
    I just started a blog as well. I know what you mean about pressing publish and how it feels when you see people. It’s been a step of faith but a stretching of my trust in God. Thank you for listening to God’s prompting to write.

  • Crystal
    Posted at 08:43h, 04 September Reply

    What a great story! I, too, feel vulnerable ALL. THE. TIME. In all areas of my life. I feel I share way too much of myself and it isn’t reciprocated or they just think I am one strange person. Not a fan of the feeling. Great article, I could actually feel your vulnerability as I read it.

  • Kim
    Posted at 14:42h, 04 September Reply

    No one should ever judge anyone according to having or not having children. They do not know what those couples are going through on a daily basis. Also, no one has the right to say to anyone else…what do you mean you don’t have kids yet??!! It is none of their business and if the couple chooses to share, that is their business. Nothing that I say as a stranger is going to make your struggle easier, but you are VERY BRAVE to share your struggles and I applaud you. Sending positive energy your way.

  • sayersmom
    Posted at 18:30h, 27 September Reply

    This post resonates with me so much! I don’t know if it’s the perfectionist in me, but I hate to appear vulnerable. It is extremely difficult for me to look like I don’t have things together. I would rather the outside world see me one way and suffer in silence.

    But this has proven a really lonely way for me.

    I learned to open up when struggling with infertility and once I started talking to friends and on Facebook forums I found real camaraderie and companionship.

    I really believe we only grow from the things that make us uncomfortable.

    Thanks for this post!

  • Rebeca
    Posted at 14:26h, 22 December Reply

    Praise God! I love your transparency. In addition, your posts lift and encourage me when I am weak. This has been a season of very low moments. I love this, “It’s not about me. It’s about Him. If sharing my struggles and heart encourages one person to know they are not alone on their journey, then it’s worth it.” – It is making a difference in my life. Thank you for your blog, your words, and reminder that it isn’t about us. It all about Him.

  • Ashley K
    Posted at 23:15h, 25 February Reply

    This applies to me today. I’m going to share on my own blog that I’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, and I’ve been working on the post for over a week, so nervous about being vulnerable and exposing this deep thing to the world. Thank you for the encouragement that vulnerability is worth it.

  • Cate
    Posted at 12:44h, 18 March Reply

    Thank you for accepting Gods purpose for you in this sharing journey. It has by far blessed me

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