Sensitivity as Strength – Embracing Your True Self in a Harsh World

(Artist statement notes from the art series Death to My Reputation by Khephra Husser, an art series that explores qualities like sensitivity, resilience, diligence, humility, quietness, and freedom.)

Notes About Sensitivity

Some callings require sensitivity in order to walk in the purpose that God has for you. Be careful who you attempt to “toughen up” for a cold world. No amount of adversity can weaken your ability to remain a light. If you experience people coming into your life, attacking and manipulating you to become cold or hardened like them, recognize that these people may have failed to love themselves enough to resist the pressures of the world. Their actions reflect bitterness and stagnation. Pray for them, and let God handle them. There is no need to prove yourself or correct them. They chose to pick a fight with God, as God made you who you are. Stay focused on your purpose.

More About This

In today’s world, sensitivity is often seen as a weakness. We’re told to “toughen up” and harden ourselves to survive. But sensitivity is not a flaw; it’s a gift and, for many, a calling. It allows us to connect deeply, to feel and empathize, and ultimately, to remain aligned with the purpose God has set for us. Sensitivity is a guiding light that we can choose to cherish, even when others try to dim it.

Sensitivity as Part of Your Purpose

Some of us are called to be sensitive for a reason. Sensitivity is the doorway to deeper understanding and compassion. When we are attuned to our emotions and those of others, we are better equipped to walk in alignment with a purpose that is beyond just ourselves. This isn’t about letting every hardship affect us deeply; rather, it’s about recognizing that sensitivity is a tool to bring light, empathy, and healing into the world. Through this, we can fulfill a greater purpose, one that might not make sense to those around us but remains meaningful to us and our Creator.

Protecting Your Sensitivity

Unfortunately, people may see sensitivity as a vulnerability they can target. There will always be those who attempt to manipulate us or pressure us to “toughen up” to fit their worldview. But often, these people haven’t allowed themselves to experience sensitivity, either out of fear or past hurt, and may even resent others for having it. They may project bitterness and seek to pull us into their emotional armor, hoping we’ll adopt their hardened approach to life.

However, protecting our sensitivity means recognizing these influences for what they are and choosing to separate ourselves from them. It’s not necessary to “fix” others or prove our worth to them; instead, we can release their hold on us. In staying true to our sensitivity, we can remain connected to our purpose, allowing God to handle those who do not understand us.

Sensitivity as Strength in a Cold World

There’s a certain resilience that comes with embracing sensitivity. Each time we choose compassion over callousness, understanding over indifference, we build inner strength. It takes courage to remain open and soft in a world that can be unkind. This strength doesn’t lie in showing power outwardly but in our quiet determination to stay true to who we are, no matter the world’s expectations.

Prayer and Letting Go

One of the most freeing things we can do is to let go of the need to “toughen up” for others. Instead, we can choose to pray for those who try to impose their bitterness on us. By entrusting these people to God, we release ourselves from the burden of needing to change them or earn their approval. Sensitivity is a divine trait, a way of connecting deeply with both God and others. When we acknowledge that our sensitivity is intentional, we gain peace and the strength to continue on our unique path.

To those of us who feel things deeply, remember: you are exactly as God made you. Embrace your sensitivity, and don’t let anyone convince you it’s a weakness. It’s your gift, your calling, and the world needs it.