Video Resource
From TEDTalk: Brené Brown studies human connection -- our ability to
empathize, belong, love. In a poignant, funny talk, she shares a deep insight from her research, one that sent her on a personal quest to know herself as well as to understand humanity.
The video runs 20 minutes and was shared on TED in June 2010.
Why We've Included This Resource
The Christian community, like any other, at times fails to emphasize the importance of vulnerability and feeling emotions. In an effort to distance ourselves from the “follow your heart” narrative of the culture and the doubleminded-ness like a tossing of waves that James writes of in his epistle, Christians have been guilty of stuffing emotions. We are called to be “perfect” as our Heavenly Father is perfect. And thereby often put the strain of perfection upon ourselves in a way God did not intend. We prefer to deny our humanity and assume that our spiritual-selves will overcome all fleshly emotions. But emotions, vulnerability and feelings of shame are simply a part of life; we see that in the Psalms. The beauty is that God never tries to suppress that humanity, but rather encourages us to bring it to him, to pour our hearts out to Him, every wild emotion. Vulnerability is essential for human connection, but it’s also a cornerstone in our relationship with Christ. How can we claim true intimacy with Him if we can’t even be vulnerable and honest with Him? Brené Browns Ted Talk on vulnerability is an essential resource for Christians who struggle with being honest about their insufficiency, human connection, and developing intimate connection with our Heavenly Father.
What You Should Know Before You Watch
Brené Brown, is not, to our knowledge a Christian. She speaks from her
personal experience as a woman, wife, and mother, as well as her professional
experience as a Researcher. It is this expertise we can all glean from. Her main focus of study has been vulnerability and shame, its effects and distinguishments amongst people. Listeners should be mindful of personal worldviews she might interject. She also uses mildly explicit
Language. Parent Discretion is Advised.