Standing Naked

If you want me to invite you into my world, there are a few things you need to know. 

You should know that my universe is a circle, inviting and continuous and it is tiered, layered to protect all that I hold dear. 

You should know that a large circle of friends surround me, these are the voices of those that have reached out to me or those that have pulled me towards them.  I know each by name and tidbits of his/her reality. I can regurgitate on command.  My friends lift me up when I fall and I am always reaching out so they do not stumble. It is in this game of Clue where I learn who has my back and who has the knife.  It is here I strike for balance, catch and release: dividing my time, strengthening my ties, adjusting the parachute for the big plunge towards the next layer.

You should know that through the rabbit hole, embedded within are were my closest friends hang out, we debate life's twists and turns, challenge every fiber of being, laugh and cry, and it is where the undressing begins as we strip down who we are and if we will take the next step.

You should know that I am very loyal and I do not understand those who are unfaithful.  If you do not like what you see, be up front and honest, this is the time to walk away.

You should know that the next step may be the biggest, it is where we stand naked before each other.  My family saw my nakedness when I was born so I feel confident before them but with others I am shy and fragile.  We have time to explore each other on this shared journey.  Time to make mistakes, learn, and grow beyond what we can imagine.  I see you for all that you are and all that you will be and I am with you unconditionally.

You should know that I kneel in the center of my world because I have not lost the gravity of the situation, I am here because of all of you.  We hold each other together.

You should know that all you need to do is reach out...