Boundaries and Walls
I live in cul-de-sac and I have great relationship with my neighbors. What makes this possible are the boundaries that each of us have. We know where our geographical and personal boundaries are. If I were to build a wall around my house my relationship with my neighbors would not be so good. The wall would indicate that I don’t trust them and would isolate me from interaction with them. This is what many people do in close relationship. They protect themselves from emotional vulnerability. Walls are built to protect. Any time a wall is built for safety a support wall needs to be built and then another to support that. Consequently, these walls that were built to defend become a personal prison. Boundaries are healthy for relationships for they create safety and security for the relationship. They delineate what is wanted and unwanted and form the basis for healthy expectations.
Questions to Ponder: How vulnerable do I make myself in relationship? Do I have a tendency to isolate or interact? How hard is it for me to say ‘no’ and establish healthy boundaries? What are some boundaries that need to be established?
Scripture I Corinthians 13:7 Love always protects, always trusts ...(NIV)