A fence is a boundary. Visually it says, do whatever you want but don’t cross this line. It’s clear. Most of us wouldn’t find ways to get over the fence. We’d assume it’s there for a reason and that it doesn’t really concern us anyways. We could just as easily go around or find another way.
A door is a more flexible boundary. You can come right up and knock on it, but I choose whether to answer or not. And even if I do choose to answer it, I then decide whether to let you in or not. So doors are cool. They give you a way to control what comes into your space.
But what about the other boundaries—ones that aren’t as obvious? Like working past your physical limit? Or committing to more projects than you can actually take on? Or forcing yourself to stay awake, go further, nod in agreement when you don’t actually agree.
Boundaries define a person. A boundary means you have an edge. It doesn’t have to be rigid; it can be flexible. But whatever pushes against that line is your point of reference. It outlines what you value.
Boundaries are commitments you keep to yourself. You can save yourself a lot of headache by letting people know where your lines are. It’s not going to offend them. If it does, maybe they shouldn’t be dealing with you; in fact, it sounds like they may not have set their own clear boundaries. But first you have to know what’s important to you. Where do you stand? Ask yourself what do you value? What area’s of your life will you always protect?
When you listen to the message of the body, you may realize that frankly, you’re just the messenger. Your Body has her own mind, her own wants and desires that may be different than your Mind-Mind. So speak up. Define your line. Be a protector for the you within.
