Allow Me to Re-Introduce Myself

On the innate desire to know and be known

Photo by Pablo Gentile on Unsplash

Earlier today, I attended a virtual writers’ workshop for Thred, a blog that seeks to spark meaningful conversation with people of diverse backgrounds about life, faith, and Jesus. They’re in the midst of re-launching after a hiatus and a re-working of their vision and values. I had the opportunity to write an article for them that will be published sometime in the near future, and today I got the chance to share some digital space with other contributors. Our assignment for the workshop was to write a poem from a template in order to introduce ourselves to the group.

Can I tell you that it is hard for me to come up with the words to introduce myself? I can write words that express the vulnerable wrestlings in my heart, but a few sentences to tell you who I am and what I’m about is a challenge. My hunch is that it taps into some old insecurities. Maybe I’m not good enough. Maybe I don’t measure up. Maybe my life isn’t really all that interesting. But as I did my best to push those lies away, I appreciated the process of giving words to some of my intricacies that reveal more than you would ever learn by asking the perfunctory question, “What do you do?”

I believe that inside each one of us there is an innate desire to know and be known by others. Sometimes that desire has been buried deep under the weight of emotional wounds and insecurities, but as humans made in the image of God, it’s a part of our DNA. And yet, so often we stay on the surface or hide behind facades and filtered images. Maybe it feels invasive to ask the deeper questions. Maybe we’re afraid of the reactions if we respond honestly.

I’m no expert when it comes to conversation. I often struggle to bridge the gap between simple introductions and deeper, more fulfilling dialogues. But I long to know and be known. I desire to ask good questions and give thoughtful responses. I want to cultivate space for connection, curiosity, and compassion. Maybe it starts with an honest introduction.

So allow me to re-introduce myself…

I Am…

Vanessa
Empathetic & compassionate
Wife of a deeply loyal man and mom of two sensitive souls who love me more than I feel I deserve
Lover of flowing water, lush green hills, and blue skies with fluffy white clouds
Who feels big feelings, deeply, sometimes all at once
Who needs space to process, emotional connection, and more affirmation than I'd like to admit
Who gives into late-night snacks, one more book, and ten more minutes of good conversation
Who fears the sting of rejection, being a burden, and letting others down
Who admires confidence with humility, courageous vulnerability, and contemplative peacemaking
Who hates conflict, criticism, and conceit
Who would like to see more love and grace and a world where all can flourish
Resident of the space between the mountains and the sea
Stricker

I would love for you to introduce (or re-introduce) yourself. If you’re interested, take a little time with the template below to write your own introduction poem. You can share it in the comments, by replying to this email, or on social media (tag me @onthesideofgrace if you do). I can’t wait to get to know more of who you are.

Introduction Poem Template

[First Name]
[Two adjectives that describe you]
[Three short phrases that describe your family]
Lover of… [three nouns with adjectives]
Who feels… [three nouns/phrases]
Who needs… [three nouns/phrases]
Who gives into… [three nouns with adjectives]
Who fears… [three nouns with adjectives]
Who admires… [three nouns/phrases]
Who hates… [three nouns with alliteration]
Who would like to see… [three nouns/phrases]
Resident of… [describe the place you live]
[Last Name]

I’m looking forward to hearing from you!