No casual observer would understand the turmoil of my thoughts and feelings... the pretenses of my existence.  I am reduced to simplicity in the company of my *Family of the Heart*.  The masks and armor, the cool facade... all pretenses drift away and I am left standing there, wholly myself... and I am comfortable,  knowing that I am wholly accepted.  That is the true blessing of having reached past my own defenses, of standing there honestly beside my friends, of having prayed for~ and received~ a willing heart.

*Masks* Arising in the cool dawn,  I don my armor, ready my mask.  Facing the world in pretense and illusion.  I fear I am not who I appear to be.    A brief glance reveals the competent adult  While my inner child cowers ever more deeply.  Casual onlookers see success  Inside there is only fear of failure.  Only in the company of Family of My Heart  Can I stand naked and alone without fear  Cast off the mask, the pretense, the illusion  Allow myself to be seen and rejoice in the seeing.

*May the Garden of Your  Heart be filled with Gathered Family who strengthen and support you wholly.*

*Family of the Heart* Those people you gather to the Garden of Your Heart who you love well and who love you well in return.