The Shame Behind the Mask

Last week, we touched on the masks we wear, but I want to stay here a little while longer. Why? Because shame is deeply connected to those masks, and honey, that damn shame is powerful! I’ve seen incredible people make decisions rooted in shame and insecurities, often to their own detriment.

The truth is, we all have insecurities and things we need to work on. But the key is doing the work. And let’s be real doing the work is hard. For one, it requires us to acknowledge our struggles, which is something most of us would rather avoid. On top of that, seeking professional help is often stigmatized. We’ve been taught to take our problems to a higher power, or that seeking therapy means something’s “wrong” with us.

I’ve never understood this. If you have a medical issue, you see a doctor. If your car needs an oil change, you take it in for maintenance. So why isn’t therapy or counseling seen the same way?

I started my own journey with therapy over three years ago. I’ll be honest—at first, I felt that same shame. I grew up in the church, and therapy went against what I was taught. But fast forward to today, and therapy serves me in a completely different way. I’m a goal-oriented person who tends to overthink. Therapy helps me with strategic planning and pacing myself, allowing me to show up as the best version of me.

I share this because, as I’ve evolved into the woman I am today, I’ve made the decision to take off my mask and truly get to know myself. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary.

Some people might read this blog and think it’s all about me, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. This is bigger than me—it's about all of us. It’s about creating a space where we can be honest about our struggles and grow together. I’m sharing my journey because I know I’m not alone, and if my story resonates with even one person, then it’s worth it.

My hope is that Thankful4Grace inspires you to do the same. I want this platform to give you the confidence to discover who you really are and, most importantly, to give yourself some grace along the way. We’re all on this journey called life—let’s do the work and grow together.

Shutanda