Projection: What it is and How it Affects Our Perception of Reality

"The project of our day-to-day life is projecting versions of ourselves as protection. We've created different ways of being shield against being seen as ourselves. We don't want people to know who we really are." - Jackie Hill Perry

I used to believe that being honest, transparent, and vulnerable would only expose my weaknesses. I remember hiding behind a mask, pretending everything was okay. During that time, I turned to smoking marijuana and projected my feelings and views onto others to avoid confronting my struggles.

There was a time when I thought vulnerability was synonymous with weakness. I thought that if people knew the real me, they would see me as fragile and incapable. So, I put on a brave face and acted as if everything was perfect. This facade was exhausting to maintain, and it led me down a path of self-destructive behaviors. I started smoking marijuana regularly, using it as a way to numb my pain and avoid dealing with my emotions. I also began to project my feelings and negative views onto others, using them as a mirror to reflect what I was unwilling to face within myself.

This period of my life was incredibly challenging. I felt isolated and misunderstood, caught in a cycle of avoidance and self-deception. But, as time went on, I began to realize that this way of living was unsustainable. The mask I wore started to crack, and the truth of my struggles began to seep through. In these moments of raw honesty, I discovered something profound: there is immense strength in vulnerability.

Today, I see the power of sharing my journey. My experiences have become my testimony, helping others embrace their truth and find their strength. By being open about my past, I hope to inspire and support others on their paths to authenticity.

Embracing my truth has been a transformative process. It has allowed me to connect with others deeper, fostering genuine relationships built on trust and mutual understanding. Sharing my story has not only been healing for me but has also served as a beacon of hope for those who may be going through similar struggles. I’ve learned that by walking in our truth, we empower others to do the same.

Now, I find sharing my test is my testimony to help others walk in their truth and help others.

In this journey of self-discovery, I’ve realized that we are all works in progress. Each of us has a unique story, filled with trials and triumphs. By sharing these stories, we create a picture of human experience that reminds us we are not alone. I hope that by being transparent about my journey, I can contribute to a culture of openness and support. We all can heal, grow, and inspire one another.

In the end, it is our honesty, transparency, and vulnerability that truly make us strong.