Vulnerability. I often find myself thinking, “Where did that word or any word come from?”

Did you know that Vulnerability comes from the Latin word, “Vulnus,” which means the ability to be wounded? To wound? Now on the surface that can be a harsh word, but when you think about it, anytime that you go out on a limb, take a step in a direction that you have never gone, or tried something new, you are opening yourself up to being unhappy, let down, or simply being VULNERABLE.

When I sat down to write this today, I took a step toward vulnerability. Here I am, a woman of color in dentistry, joining a group about businesswomen without having a business behind my name. I’ve been in dentistry for over 20 years. I’ve been a dental assistant, a hygienist, a hygiene coach, in operations, and currently in dental integrations. I have had a fulfilling and successful life in dentistry, so why would I choose to join this group?

Because I am vulnerable.

No matter how much experience and passion I have for dentistry, I am always looking for the next step in my future. My unknown future. The future in which I am uncertain if my business idea will succeed or fail, but one that I want to design. The future that pushes me to surround myself with the women that inspire me to be a better version of myself.

Women who are living their dream in an authentic and powerful way.

Do I have a fully vetted, solid business plan? NO.

Do I know what direction I would like to go? YES.

As I network with this group and with others, I am certain that my vision will grow, little by little. So, for now, I will consider myself a DEW drop; but keeping in mind that only with a multitude of “dew drops” can we saturate ideas to fruition.

One of my favorite quotes is by Mark Twain, “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that. But the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.”

Anne and her mission here at DEW, have proved that I, too, deserve to be a part of this growing community. That I, too, “can become great.”

So yes, I am vulnerable, but I am not afraid. Until I take a step into the unknown, how will I ever give myself a chance to succeed?