I blame Jezebel

Meet the sloths from Amphibian Avenger on Vimeo.

Be brave!

I am generally uncomfortable with feelings. I can definitely get used to the nice ones, but give me awkward or tears and I sincerely wish I were a turtle. I'd pull all my limbs in and you could knock on my shell to let me know when it's all over. Alas, after years of vigorous wishing, I have yet to magically turn into a turtle.

Sometimes I google the authors of Modern Love columns. They are journalists, lawyers, or just average people. I am always struck by how brave it is to show people your insides, put your name on it, and have it published. Last week's Modern Love column was written by a woman who had given her son up for adoption. It was an open adoption, so she's part of her son's life, an in-between presence, and there is a raw, wrenching quality to the essay that I found very palpable.

My biggest act of bravery is not a physically risky activity; it's really just allowing myself to be vulnerable. I think I would rather have my blood drawn. It's hard, but sometimes it is the right thing to do. The world is such that keeping people at arm's length essentially keeps people at arm's length, so I've had to learn to accept the risk for the potential reward.

So try something new today, sign up for kickball.