Secrecy - a hound of humanity

Not long ago, I found myself contemplating the difference between "privacy" and "secrecy." Two terms that many deem synonymous yet I beg to differ. Of course if drawn out in conversation, people will make a distinction, but in general lingo... not so much. Many might say this is not a big deal, but again, I would differ. Minimized "secrecy" superficially maximizes the foothold for the one who works in secrecy. With this being said, I do not think any person should "air dirty laundry" for public display or knowledge. However, I do firmly believe there is a need for individual realness. As images of God, we are to love, to care, to be vulnerable...

We are called to come along those struggling and empathize.

We are called to bear our burdens so others may join with a righteous power in prayer.

We are called to acknowledge our weaknesses so our new nature may overcome that which the old self could not "put to death."

We are called to live openly in community.

So, how is this possible if under layers of self presentation lies multiple layers of secrets? Privacy is being guarded and discerning about who knows what and to what extent. Secrecy is the concealing of that which needs to be hidden. Hidden? Really? Where is the transparency in that?? Then I would ask myself, if no one knows about the "secret," is it something I am taking to God? If not, there is a problem.

Usually confined in shadows, secrets manifest into more than a concept of struggle; again, they become a foothold for satan. There is no Light to cast out the darkness, thus the maligned nature broods. Secrets in our lives mimic lies, attacking our conscience and until we repent and let it all down, something in us - call it carnal paranoia - begins the perpetual cycle of "saving face." Oddly and justly enough, this very path only widens the chasm we must cross to get back to fruitful living, a self-made valley of despair dug one secret and one lie at a time.