Lo! in the middle of the wood,The folded leaf is wooed from out the bud...With winds upon the branch, and there grows green and broad, and takes no care.--Lord Tennyson

What does it take for us to be drawn out of ourselves? So many of us have retreated inwardly and are afraid to open up in social situations. We may refuse invitations to gatherings, may be afraid to meet new people and may want to remain in uncomfortable but stable situations.

When a plant grows a new leaf, we see evidence of a shoot. Then we see the leaf grow longer, curled tight like a cigar. Finally, with nourishment and safety, it begins to unfurl. This leaf supports new life, and the healthy plant grows.

We, too, are like that new leaf. As we grow, we learn there are environments where we can open up and be safe. It's okay to close up when there are people or situations around us that are unhealthy. But we need not fear everybody or everything. We can be safe. We can proudly unfurl ourselves for all to see.

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Am I withdrawn because of fear? Tonight I can find a safe person, place, or thing and open myself up in safety.