How do you protect yourself? Or do you ever feel like you need to protect yourself? I am not talking about physical or impending danger. I am talking about things we protect ourselves from in life. So that, we can keep our self, from being hurt, such as letting yourself fall in love and being loved or taking a chance in friendship even though you have been hurt in the past. There is a book called, “Why am I afraid to love?” by John Powell. In it he says, “Rather than expose a self we imagine to be inadequate or ugly, we build walls to protect ourselves from rejection we fear from others.” Then he goes on to say, “If I give myself to you and you reject me it is all I have to give.” Thus, in our mind, we become unworthy—unlovable. Subsequently, we put up walls to protect ourselves and not let anyone in. Sometime, in life, we just have to take a risk and not shut others out of our life. Yes, it is a risk but in the end you we be glad you did. For if we are honest, whether you love or allow yourself to be loved in life, you will be hurt—for life at times is painful. Trying to protect our self never really works. We must remember, “He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap.” (Ecclesiastes 11:4) This verse speaks to the importance of taking action and seizing opportunities, even when circumstances seem uncertain. It is something to think about. God Bless. Amen.