It’s Day 60 of our 100 Days of Community journey—and what a ride it’s been. Today, we unpacked what it means to nurture empathy and vulnerability in our relationships, especially in a world shaped by supremacy culture, power hoarding, and disconnection. From messy audio to a Black-owned café that turned into an unexpected sacred space, today’s talk was a masterclass in grace, truth, and presence.
We covered a lot, but here’s the heart of it: Empathy and vulnerability are not optional in liberation work. They are essential. And they only work when paired with boundaries.
Free Preview
“Where’s your heart? Where’s your empathy? That is the community. They’re being donors. They’re saying, ‘I messed up.’ Oh my God. I made a mistake. I really thought about the economy. I really thought that voting for this administration would provide for my family. That’s a rippling weight of capitalism. So where is your empathy instead of the ‘aha’?”
“Because there ain’t no ‘aha.’ We all suffer. And here’s the thing—your racism is blocking your liberation every single time. Every. Single. Time. You voted out of fear and individualism, which are both pillars of supremacy culture. But now what? Are you listening? Are you ready to do the work?”
That’s the invitation, fam. Are we cultivating relationships rooted in real connection—or are we performing proximity without presence?
3 Liberation-Centered Takeaways
1. Empathy Creates Space for Understanding
Empathy allows us to sit in the discomfort of someone else’s lived experience without centering our own. It helps us connect beyond performance and makes space for true transformation.
2. Vulnerability Deepens Connection
Vulnerability says: “I trust you with my truth.” But in supremacy culture, we’re taught to hide vulnerability like it’s weakness. In reality, it’s the bridge to intimacy, repair, and revolutionary love.
3. Boundaries Make Empathy and Vulnerability Sustainable
You can’t pour from an empty cup. And you can’t engage deeply with others if you’re being depleted or harmed in the process. Liberation relationships honor everyone’s needs.
A Gentle Invitation to Go Deeper
If today’s conversation stirred something in you—whether it was discomfort, resonance, or revelation—I want to personally invite you to keep going.
In the full article, we explore:
✅ A step-by-step framework for nurturing liberatory empathy and setting boundaries in family, work, and community.
✅ Reflection prompts to assess how vulnerability shows up (or doesn’t) in your relationships.
✅ Tools for creating brave spaces that foster authentic connection without bypassing harm.
This isn’t just about theory—it’s about transformation. And it’s not just about others—it’s about you.
If finances are a barrier to accessing the full post, reach out: scholarships@desireebstephens.com. This work is for everyone, not just those who can afford it.
👇 Click below to unlock the full conversation and walk with us as we build the liberated relationships we all deserve.
