I Tear Down Walls

I break through my defenses, doubts, and fears. I tear down my emotional walls to help resolve challenging situations and let others in. 

I accept my past. I forgive myself for errors and lapses in judgement. I search for the lessons I can take away from difficult experiences. 

I embrace uncomfortable emotions. I validate my feelings of anger or jealousy. I examine the root causes and figure out how to respond constructively. 

I test my abilities. I look forward to activities that will stretch my skills and increase my sense of accomplishment. I am brave enough to survive a little embarrassment if I trip on the dance floor. 

I reach out to those I usually keep at a distance. I ask a coworker for their advice instead of pretending that I know it all. I greet a neighbor passing by instead of worrying that a few minutes of conversation will put me behind schedule. 

I listen more closely. I empathize with a sick friend. I appreciate that my children may have opinions different than my own. 

I form new habits. I am curious to see what happens when I break out of old patterns. I find that I can resolve conflicts and manage stress. 

I discover my authentic self. I see that my walls confine me. I want to live more fully. 

Today, I build bridges instead of walls. I leap over the barriers that used to hold me back. 

Self-Reflection Questions: 

1. What is the cost of building walls around my heart?
   
2. How can my spiritual faith teach me to tear down emotional walls?
   
3. How do I feel when I think someone is shutting me out?