Allowing Vulnerability

Words & Photography
by AJ Fernando



I was at Analog the other day hoping to find the conversation that started it all. The very first one wherein I was on the receiving side and this woman randomly came up to me. It was almost a year ago and I can’t recall her name but I do remember how that conversation went.

I was on my laptop and she caught me off guard by first asking to sit next to me. She proceeded with small talk, gave a few recommendations on Calgary’s food scene, but it was when we she introduced herself that changed it to a deeper conversation. By simply sharing with me that part of herself, her name, she had broken a barrier. She allowed herself to be vulnerable and that’s what got me to open up myself, and pushed me to share my own vulnerabilities. She wasn’t a stranger anymore but a person that I came to connect with.

She allowed herself to be vulnerable and that’s what got me to open up myself, and pushed me to share my own vulnerabilities.

I didn’t notice what was going on beneath the surface and I ended up taking the conversation for granted. But looking back now, I’ve realized how this woman played a huge part in my journey. I remember feeling lost and alone at that point in my life but she taught me that community and connection is right within our reach. You just have to take the initiative and open your doors first for others. And that’s what #igramfor. Being a person or a stranger in someone's life is your decision. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and to allow yourself to be vulnerable. You never know who you can connect with and/or end up inspiring.