The Internalization of Living

"If I kept my cats inside instead of letting them outside to set their own boundaries, I might guarantee that they won't be runover or stolen or accidentally killed by a hunter, but how would they be able to really live their lives? I keep the same mindset for myself. If I closed myself off from everyone, I might guarantee that I won't be taken advantage of or hurt, but then how would I be able to really live my life?" -DL

If I kept my heart closed, how would I be able to experience the trials of life? If I didn't engage myself in other's lives, how would I be able to feel? If I didn't lend myself to others, how would I be able to reach out? If I became too independent, how would I find joy in the company of others? If I became too dependent, how would I learn and grow?

So my journey continues. I'm required to break structured routine. I'm frightened and nervous, but I'm embracing my future.

My surroundings are alive and vibrant, but in all of the commotion, I have found inner peace. I am content to a level of which I haven't experienced in a while. Perhaps there's irony in this considering that today is so gloomy.

Still, that's life.