We live in a world packed to the brim with shields. Everywhere we go, every step we take, we carry them, hoisting them high into the air, as if a shield will prevent us from getting hurt.
We’ve grown to believe that by hiding beyond our imaginary cushion of safety, we remain protected from harms way. But lugging around our alleged net of security carries a price, a price that many of us cannot afford.
Instead of creating deep connections, we hold back because we fear the pain of being hurt. Instead of taking risks, we play it safe and settle, because no one enjoys sporting a bruise. Instead of going all out towards our hearts calling, we cling to the safety of our impenetrable shield that guarantees us nothing short of a boring life.
I’ll be the first to admit, hiding behind a shield brings comfort. It protects you from falling on your ass, but in return you don’t live, you simply exist.
Perhaps you’ve told yourself any of the following:
” I’m not interesting so I better keep my mouth shut.”
” I’m not attractive enough.”
” If I love again, I’ll just end up getting hurt.”
” I’ve been lied to too much, I can’t trust ever again.”
” I don’t have enough value to offer.”
Familiar? If so you’re living in a shelter of denial. The truth is, we all live behind excuses from time to time, but at any moment you can choose to drop them.
Boasting a shield puts your dreams on hold. Shields and aspirations don’t mesh. But when you make the decision to tear down your self made barriers, all excuses suddenly disappear. You then begin to live.
It’s OK to be afraid. It’s OK to come up short. But you don’t need to hide. When you embrace uncertainty and suffering you accept all that life has to offer.
Every moment you hide, you’re denying yourself the richness of unexpected bliss. Every moment you hide, you’re rejecting relationships that could potentially enrich your being. Every moment you hide, you’re giving your gift of now away. Every moment you hide, you’re wasting the precious gift of you.
Shieldless living isn’t for everyone, but those who drop their shields and go into battle full force.. well those are the people that truly make a difference.
You’re free to drop your shields whenever you please and take a whiff of what it’s really like to live. Shieldless living is a choice.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
I agree. If you keep shielding yourself, you will never truly live. You will not learn or grow as a person. We should always live our lives like it’s our last day. I travel around a lot so I have learned how to enjoy every moment, as I always have to leave people and places behind. Incredible post, Bud. You always have the talent of opening people’s eyes.
Hey Anonymous… thanks for always being by my side.
It’s a good idea to see other’s shields too. I realised recently that someone may come across as larger than life in a particular setting like at the office or as a sporting person but take them out of that zone and what their shield drop.
Everyone has shield but it’s definitely wise to let them drop as often as possible.
Amit.. You bring up some great points. We all have our weaknesses and we when learn to embrace them we can connect at a more meaningful level.