Welcome to “Athlos” a weekly blog which examines pillars of personal excellence and regularly brings together the worlds of Christian spirituality and sport.
Uncovered
“Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart”-Psalm 51:6
Unhindered
When someone exposes their true inner condition and allows the world to see the extent of their internal struggles, it is hard not to pay attention. It is even more impressive when the person involved lives with the unimaginable pressure of being a national footballer from Brazil, where this sport rivals religion as an avenue for worship.
Like Dele Alli earlier this year, talented player Richarlison shared publicly that on his return to England where he plays for Tottenham Hotspur, he would actively seek out psychological help. His confession was open and transparent. He was struggling to focus on excelling at his trade. There were legitimate fears, the BBC reported, that some people were around him to get his money. Richarlison was unhindered when it came to bearing his heart.
This is the spirit of Psalm 51 above. Divine joy is found within our inner depths. Not the superficiality of image management, approval seeking and people pleasing, but a deep dive into our “secret heart”. Those are the places where we see who we really are. There is doubt, discomfort, desperation and delight all mixed up in our inward being. Yet, we must be willing to keep going there. Are you open to removing all masks so that your “secret heart” can be revealed? Find a safe person and a safe space and be receptive to the wisdom that comes from going deep.
Unashamed
There is absolutely no shame in asking for help. It is both liberating and contagious.
If you were inspired by this blog, please consider sharing it with one other person today. To learn more about these and other related themes that promote the cultivation of an integrated inner self, read UNBEATABLE! which is available on Amazon in print and as an e-book.
This Post Has 6 Comments
Too true Tyrone!!
I have worn masks most of my life, and I dare say, it’s so exhausting living out one’s false self. Learning to unmask and live out my true self is one of the most liberating feelings anyone can experience. Transparency pays! It draws others to Christ, and isn’t that what we are here for?
My prayer is that by my shameless vulnerability, others would see the beauty of Christ in me and be drawn to him.
Thanks for the depth of your contribution, Ronke. I, too, am learning the freedom and joy of putting my false self to death.
Hi Tyrone,like Ronke shared it’s a habit of mask wearing for me. Recently I have had to first admit to myself what my personal truths are.; Pat that’s a judgement or Pat you’re bitter, then I’ve had to stop myself from blocking the truth) a bad practice I’ve called”taking every thought captive” not that the scripture is wrong but how I practiced it was wrong). Once I named it, then I sat with my truth while I prayed, only then I was ready to be honest and open. It is a process.
This is so profound, Pat and also quite vulnerable of you to share so openly and honestly. Thank you.
Yep. Well said. It’s the Kitchen Table that Michelle Obama refers to as well, free to bare your heart on your sleeve without feeling unhindered because it is your safe space. Thank you.
Thanks for these thoughts, Michelle.