Hoarders

So there's this show on A&E called Hoarders. And it's about...well...hoarders. People that value their stuff over their family. So they build nests and walls and towers of clothes and gifts and boxes to keep people away. Of course I watch this and I say "These people need help."

What are the things that I count on, that I use, that I surround myself with, to separate me from the people that love me and that I want to love? Hoarders use material things. Maybe I hoard emotions. Maybe I hoard distance. Maybe I hoard time. Or...shoot...maybe all three.

There is a fear in all of us that if we give up the fight, if we remove the walls, if we allow ourselves to be open, we will not be received. Will people really love me if they really knew me? If they REALLY knew me?

I guess we have two options in life:

1. Surround ourselves with things that replace people and never be open. This option leads to a life of predictable loneliness and distance. You won't experience as much pain. But you most certainly won't experience joy and community.
2. Surround ourselves with people and be open. This option leads to a life of unpredictable adventure and community. Pain, joy, roller coaster, life. Life together.

I am guessing that all of us have chosen both of those options in different seasons of life. When we get to the point where we can be open without fearing the pain of rejection...that's the sweet spot.

Time to go throw away some knick knacks. And call a friend.

-Liz