Introduction
“What is your secret sin?”
This is Tim’s favorite suggestion for an icebreaker the first time a small group meets. He suggests it 100% of the time we’re planning together, and I’ve been in groups when he’s presented it as though it truly is the opening question on more occasions than I can count. The nervous laughs, shifting in seats, and darting eyes quickly subside when Tim, after a beat that’s funny to him, assures them he’s just kidding. The relief is palpable. Facing our “secret sin,” or things that shame us, as we’d more often refer to this experience outside of the church, is scary in its own right. But sharing it with others? Terrifying.
Ironically, since shame thrives in silence, removing the secrecy around our shame is part of the antidote. Empathy, one of our main topics last week, is another. Shame tells us we’re not good enough and is rooted in a fear of disconnection. Why would we announce that to others? Brene Brown writes that, “shame is a social emotion. Shame happens between people and it heals between people.”
So maybe Tim is on to something?
Let’s get together this weekend to dive into it more. I promise not to begin by asking you to share your secret sin.
Laura Holland and the Teaching Team
What’s next?
Next week we’ll hear from TJ Williams about Circles NWA. You won’t want to miss it!
