Protective Coverage

“Summer means happy times and good sunshine.” Brian Wilson

And it also means Sun Rash-which is such a pity. I love to be outside. As soon as the winter dreariness is cleared away with the  power wash of spring, I want to be outside. I want to garden, walk, swim, and help Joe with construction. It all comes at a cost.

Winter is free. Summer is expensive. At the first exposure to the sun, I break out in tiny, itchy bumps. So…I have to decide. Go outside unprepared and uncovered and itch. Or go outside with appropriate gear in the attempt to ward off the sun’s apparent irritation to my skin.

When I can, I try to protect myself from the sun. I still go out, but with some caution.

Life is actually very similar. We can get hurt by other people. We have a similar choice: stay in and be protected, or venture out and interact with people and receive possible enjoyment. I suppose I have to admit that over time, I’ve learned to protect myself a little. I place some degree of protective coverage between me and a new person until I have some trust that the person is safe.

I used to trust easily. Stephen King says, “The trust of the innocent is the liar’s most useful tool.” And so it was. Consequently, now I am more protective. To trust and be trusted is a valuable gem. Earned trust is a treasure.

“To be trusted is a greater compliment than being loved.” George MacDonald