1) Review the Moreau FYE Fall 2021 syllabus. Which of the focus questions or objectives stated in the document stand out to you as particularly relevant to your life? After reading over the syllabus, the objective “develop and pursue a vision of a life well-lived” really stood out to me as something relevant to my life. As a freshman, I have just arrived at college - the place where everyone says that you find yourself and your passions. Although I have a plan for what I would ideally like my life to look like, I am very interested in finding if this “vision” will be my true version of a “life well-lived”. Another question that stood out to me was “How can I grow as my most authentic self?”. This question is really interesting to me as well. I am interested in finding my true self over these next few years and separating that from what others want me to be. 2) Drawing from Dr. Brown’s commentary, submit a QQC Reflection to prepare for in-class discussion. View the “QQC Reflections” section of the syllabus for detailed guidance. Q: Why is it harder for some people to be vulnerable, whereas others are wide open about themselves and easily form deep connections? Q: “Shame is really easily understood as the fear of disconnection. Is there something about me that if other people know it or see it, that I won’t be worthy of connection?” This quote represents the essence and meaning of what it means to be vulnerable around others. We often associate the idea of vulnerability with shame and secrets, and when we are vulnerable, we risk the idea that others might view us differently or judge us for what we have revealed. We often label this as shame, as we are ashamed to reveal the deepest parts of ourselves in an attempt of protection. As humans we crave and thrive off of connection with others. When we are vulnerable, we are risking this essential part of our lives and jeopardizing our “worthiness”. C: Overall, I really enjoyed listening to this TED talk about what it means to be vulnerable and how to find connection through knowing your worth. I found it really interesting that people who have found a strong sense of belonging always believe they are loved and worthy, which separates them from the people who seek this connection. I really believe that this is true and that vulnerability requires the sacrifice of one’s comfort zone. You must extend yourself beyond the bounds you have created for yourself and dive head first into discomfort. If you trust and believe that you are loved and worthy, anyone who treats you differently after learning more about your inner self is not someone who you should seek to have in your life. Vulnerability is crucial in forming lasting relationships and building true connections with the people in your life. Personally, I sometimes struggle with opening myself up and leaning into discomfort, but this is a skill I consistently work to get better at and more comfortable with.