I realized something over the weekend.  For the past few weeks, I've felt frustrated and a little bummed that I have such a hard time being open with people.  I tend to be a bit introverted, shy and very private.  Because of this, I often struggle to tell people what's really on my mind (well, except for Steven -- poor guy thinks I have no filter).  But lot's of other people get the watered down version of me, and I've been working hard to change that (sometimes I'm more successful at this than others).

And then it hit me.

There are A LOT of people that are exactly the same way.  Yes, yes, I know.  This should be obvious, right?  Well, shoot me, I got a little wrapped up in my own world and forgot this fact.  Even outgoing, extroverted, unrestrained people often have issues with being totally open -- saying what's truly on their mind rather than some version of that truth.  People often delay dealing with situations head-on.  They stall.  They avoid.

And so I've come to the root of what's been bothering me.  True, it does frustrate me that this type of openness doesn't come natural to me.  I have to work at it.  But what's even more frustrating, is when I put the effort in to be totally open, and I don't get the same in return.

I really, really wish we would all learn to be open with each other and deal with issues head-on.

I know it's unrealistic to expect everyone in my life to place this same importance on being open.  We all have priorities, and we're all on a different arc of growth.  I accept this.  And, actually, just being aware of this is helping tremendously.

But, for future reference, in case any of you were wondering:  I would really prefer you to just tell it like it is.  Don't be afraid to be totally open with me.  I swear, I don't bite.

photo credit: wiccked