Walking the Path of Vulnerability and Strength

Embracing What Makes Us Different

We all have vulnerabilities—some physical, others emotional or spiritual. These can feel like "Achilles' heel" moments—unique weaknesses we carry that shape our lives.

The term itself originates from Greek mythology, where Achilles, a warrior, was brought down by an arrow to his heel, his single vulnerability. I recently met someone with this medical condition, who shared that while seeking healing, the “cures” were often more painful than the condition itself.

Achilles’ story parallels the myth of Chiron in astrology. Unlike Achilles, who succumbed to his wound, Chiron lived on, using his pain as a source of wisdom and healing. In astrology, Chiron represents a lifelong vulnerability—often painful, yet a doorway to transformation.

Here, I’d like to share some of my own vulnerabilities, in hopes they resonate and inspire.

Vulnerability #1: Longing for Reciprocal Connection

When I moved to Hawaii, I began reading the local paper because it featured stories about nature and animals. Recently, I stumbled across an article about a solitary dolphin in the Baltic Sea. This dolphin, far from its typical warm-water habitat, was recorded vocalizing—almost as though calling out for a pod that wasn’t there.

This struck a deep chord. I saw myself mirrored in this dolphin—social by nature but sometimes feeling as though I’m speaking into a void. Writing brings me immense joy, but when I don’t hear anything back, it sometimes feels like I’m swimming alone in cold waters.

It didn’t always feel this way. In 2005, when I began blogging, the landscape was different. Vulnerability was novel, and connections felt more immediate. Today, with so many platforms and voices, I often feel a disconnection from my readers—a longing for my “pod” to respond and say, “I see you.”

Still, I continue creating and writing—it’s who I am. But this vulnerability remains: I long for satisfying, reciprocal connection, even as I don’t yet see a clear way forward.

Astrology Insight:
My 7th house Chiron conjunct Aries Moon highlights emotional sensitivity in relationships with wounds around being seen and supported. The square to Mercury and Venus in the 10th house amplifies challenges to being ‘heard’ in public, making creative self-expression a vital healing tool.

Takeaway:
When a writer touches your heart, consider the hours of effort they’ve put into the piece and close the loop of giving and receiving. A simple “thank you” or emoji can bridge the connection

Vulnerability #2: Living With Daily Pain

Every morning, I wake up to a splitting headache. Even after a restful night, the pain returns, often lingering for hours—a constant companion for decades.

I’ve come to believe that my pain is deeply connected to processing Earth’s environmental energy—a path that requires me to slow down, manage overstimulation, and connect more deeply with my intuition. Pain has forced me to create boundaries, prioritize energy practices, and pursue healing modalities, like breathwork.

Although disruptive, pain no longer causes me to suffer. Yes, I can feel incredibly frustrated from being sidelined by pain for hours or days at a time but I’ve learned to distinguish between who I am and what I experience. This is the path my Soul chose, and I walk it without losing myself to pain.

Astrology Insight:
With Chiron conjunct my Aries Moon, physical pain reveals a deep sensitivity to collective energy and the necessity of self-care. The Mars-Pluto opposition in a T-square with my Cancer Sun pushes me toward transformation and deeper emotional awareness.

Takeaway:
Pain narrows focus and can feel isolating. Remember, pain will pass, and you are never alone. If supporting someone in pain, validate their challenges without making them feel “different.”

Vulnerability #3: Being Perceived as Different

I have walked a path that is anything but ordinary. The spiritual gifts I’ve slowly uncovered and learned to develop, along with my unique life experiences, often set me apart.

This difference sometimes creates a sense of “otherness.”

If I’m being honest, many people struggle to make sense of me!

Unsure how to relate to me, this leads to awkward interactions or even alienation. While I fully embrace who I am, feeling excluded or encountering subtle jabs can still sting—especially in groups, where “mean girl” dynamics can emerge. These may include subtle posturing, redirecting the conversation, or excluding me altogether.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

• People often feel threatened by what they don’t understand.

• Differences can trigger insecurities, leading to inauthentic behavior.

• Groups sometimes create separation to maintain comfort and safety.

Though I can’t change how others perceive me, I refuse to dim my light or change who I am. I choose to stand in my truth, no matter who I’m with. Sometimes, this means withholding self-expression to protect my energy and vulnerabilities. When a person or group isn’t receptive, I hang back—for my benefit.

Astrology Insight:
With Uranus rising opposed by Chiron in Aries conjunct my Moon, my chart highlights a lifelong journey of embracing difference while staying authentic, even when it sets me apart.

Takeaway:
Practice oneness. When encountering someone different, look for similarities rather than differences. We are all interconnected.

Closing Thoughts

Each of these vulnerabilities—connection, pain, and difference—has shaped me, guiding me toward deeper self-awareness and resilience. Vulnerabilities, like Achilles’ heel or Chiron’s wound, may seem like weaknesses, but if we allow it they will guide us toward profound healing and growth.

By sharing mine, I hope to remind you of our shared humanity and encourage you to explore your own vulnerabilities with kindness and curiosity!