What Depth Is Acceptable?

Ever wonder just how deep to carry a conversation? Ever leave a conversation feeling like you deceived someone into thinking everything in your life is just peachy, while all along you are struggling with numerous untold issues? I'm not painting the picture of my life here or anything, just simply raising the question, how deep is deep enough? I've heard people say they have their few faithful friends with whom they bear their souls. I've heard other people blatantly state, they simply do not struggle! While others, in which category I at times regretfully place myself, live quite transparent lives, sharing levels of their hearts with others they wish they could reseal at times. I am not always in this category, for at times I find my self confortably reverting back to my "faithful few". If something troublesome is taking place in my life I have trouble concealing it. I feel as though if i do not share the truth of my life, heart, and soul, I am not only lying to myself, but deceiving others into thinking I'm doing great. I am not at all saying my life is a continuous source of pain or discouragement, however, is it not possible to be thankful for all the blessings in ones life yet feel the pangs of emptiness? Is it not possible to functionally walk through life, at times with great faith, yet even victory over sin and temptation and still be aware of the sin that remains in ones own heart and life? Is it not possible to be leaning on the everlasting promises of God and still feel the very real presense of doubt and unbelief regarding our current struggle or situation? I understand the concept of protecting our hearts and guarding ourselves from unnecessary hurt as the result of someone reacting inappropriately to something we share about ourselves, however, I think much can be gleaned by a person who is honest about their life trials and personal struggles. Who among us is ever perfect? Who among us can readily say they are without some type of struggle or defect? I not only share my hurts and struggles to ease my own conscience, but believe that through my transparent lifestyle, others may be inspired to do the same. I have learned through past experiences that people are encouraged greatly to know they are not alone in their hurt. We may not always know what to say to make a person feel better, but the ability to empathize with another, and genuinely feel compassion towards him or her, seeing life through their eyes for a brief moment is a gift. A gift posessed by the giver, and a gift bestoed upon the receiver.