This morning while rummaging through some quotes, I stumbled upon this quote by Pema Chodron. It grabbed my attention, and I wondered what it was about this quote that spoke to me at this point in time.

Wholeheartedness brought up an image of a healthy heart bursting with joy, exuberance and authenticity. A heart that leads a person into a life of courage and fantastic connections. A Google search led me to a wonderful Web site, the Internet home of Brene Brown researcher, writer, storyteller and seeker, who has studied wholeheartedness for 10 years. She has made a connection between wholeheartedness and empathy, shame and vulnerability.

I thought about all the clients I met with this past week who struggle with shame issues and how shame dramatically affects their lives. I thought about my own past and present issues with shame. Brene is quick to say that shame is universally shared by everyone; it's a common feeling. She also describes what shame resilience is and how to develop it. Her work is great and very accessible. If you are looking for a way out of shame-based living and a path towards wholeheartedness, I encourage you to take a look at her blog and discover for yourself how to begin to cultivate a life of wholeheartedness.

As I continue to peruse Brene's work, I am bumping into little pockets of shame clinging to me like velcro, a human condition that must hold me back in ways I am unaware of and prevent my heart from beating at a level of wholeheartedness that would make my life shine like the sun on a warm summer day. Well, this is one human who is committed to continue to walk a path of self-discovery. I hope you will join me.

Chris writes a blog and has a Web site. You can reach her at 734-669-7202 or by e-mail.