As I have alluded to in my previous analyses of social media, social networking allows one to manipulate their image and tell the world who they want to be, as oppose to revealing a true depiction of who they really are. Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Match.com, etc. provide a distraction, an opportunity to take us away from our pain. They embolden us to act in a way that is foreign to our true selves—simply creating an illusion.
Scott believes that along with the body’s biological immune system, an emotional immune system also exists. If one continuously conceals their most authentic self and lies about their true feelings for an extended duration of time, they will end up sick.
We lie about whom we are because we want more. We feel we are not enough yet crave intimacy and are longing for a connection. True intimacy is not exchanging information via online profiles, but rather it is “standing at the intersection of risk and need and waiting for the truth” to emerge. It is learning about ourselves in the presence of another and feeling cherished after we have been discovered and our inner truths have been revealed. This is authentic acceptance; this is true intimacy.
When someone stands with you face-to-face and looks into your eyes, they are searching your soul, and a vessel is filled. So how do we strip our deepest truths, which lie there, of shame? We must begin to believe that we are enough. The thing that is most beautiful about each one of us is what we are actually hiding away. When we “allow the vulnerable and authentic sides of ourselves to collide,” we are enabled to feel empowered and alive.
The inspirational discussion Scott fostered led me to the image of a crab. It sounds random, but I promise it makes some sense…Concealed behind a hard shell, is a rich, flavorful, and meaty interior. As we break open a crab’s shell to enjoy what lies within it, we must also crack our own shells, stop running and hiding from what is real and true, and once and for all firmly believe, “I am enough.”
The following dish is dedicated to Scott Fried and the fabulous work he is doing to empower and enlighten individuals around the country by conveying the strength, courage, and potential that lies within. Inspired by a Hungry Girl recipe, of course it features crab, (well, imitation in this case…I am on a college budget!) as well as Shirataki noodles. These are made out of the roots of a yam and tofu making them a wonderful pasta alternative both low in calories and carbohydrates.
A Friedy Crab-Fredo:
Ingredients:
1 Bag Tofu Shirataki Noodles—Fettuccine Shape
1 Wedge Light Laughing Cow Creamy Swiss Wedge
4 Ounces Imitation Crab Meat (Look for a lower-sodium variety)
¼ Cup Chopped Bell Pepper
1 Tablespoon Grated Parmesan Cheese
Fresh Basil (optional topping)
Instructions:
-- Rinse the noodles thoroughly in a colander and dry very well in a kitchen towel. You want to remove as much moisture as possible.
--Chop imitation crabmeat into small chunks as well as the bell pepper and any other vegetables you would like to include. I think steamed asparagus, broccoli, and/or mushrooms would be great additions!
--Microwave the noodles for one minute in a bowl. Then, break up the cheese wedge and add it to the bowl. Microwave another 45 seconds.
--Add in the crab and vegetables and stir to combine ingredients. Microwave an additional 30 seconds.
--Top with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Now chow down on this deliciously creamy, guilt-free dish! (Careful though, may be very hot!)
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 200 Fat: 3.5 grams Carbohydrates: 25 grams Fiber: 5 grams Protein: 12 grams