The private, reserved part of me doesn't actually want to share my truth with the world....It takes real vulnerability to speak out about things that have changed your life forever. When Andy and I decided to launch the Mariposa Trust (sayinggoodbye.org) we knew that meant sharing our story, not just in part, but wholly and also saying (and meaning) that we were willing to answer any questions that journalists threw at us. I can't pretend it wasn't scary, well actually terrifying, because it was, but what I didn't expect was the gifts that came because of this openness.
As I shared my truth....relationships became deeper, new friendships were built and my life became even more meaningful.
This was what spurred us on to launch this new campaign - #thisismytruth
We chose to launch the campaign in babyloss awareness month as this is the time most people feel an urge to say 'me too' when they have lost a longed for baby, and since its launch a mere 24 hours ago the response has been overwhelming. People are messaging the charity saying they are weeping as they use the SG graphics on social media, as they finally feel they are free to speak out....They don't need to find the words, they can just post one image that says it all.
So if you have lost a baby can I encourage you to share your story and speak your truth....Every person who joins us, is publically stating I want to help break the silence and my story matters and my babies life mattered however short it may have been.
Head to the Saying Goodbye Facebook page to get your image - www.facebook.com/sayinggoodbyeUK
Here are some amazing quotes on vulnerability to inspire you to share your truth:
'Vulnerability is the only authentic state. Being vulnerable means being open, for wounding, but also for pleasure. Being open to the wounds of life means also being open to the bounty and beauty. Don't mask or deny your vulnerability: it is your greatest asset. Be vulnerable: quake and shake in your boots with it. The new goodness that is coming to you, in the form of people, situations, and things can only come to you when you are vulnerable, i.e. open.' Stephen Russell
'We all need somebody to talk to. It would be good if we talked; not just pitter-patter, but "real" talk. We shouldn't be so afraid, because most people really like this contact; that you show you are vulnerable makes them free to be vulnerable. It's so much easier to be together when we drop our masks.' Liv Ullman
'Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.' Brene Brown
I end with my story #thisismytruth
Zoe Clark-Coates is one of the founders and CEO's of the Mariposa Trust. The Saying Goodbye division offers support and national remembrance services for anyone who has lost a baby at any stage of pregnancy, at birth or in early years.
Twitter @SayinggoodbyeUK
Instagram: ZoeAdelle
Facebook: /SayinggoodbyeUK
Pinterest: http://uk.pinterest.com/zoeclarkcoates/
Website: www.mariposatrust.org & sayinggoodbye.org