Guardedness. Are you even aware when you are in this state? A tell-tale sign is when you do not enjoy yourself in a crowd. It is natural to want to protect yourself from perceived dangers, but are you in danger at a party? The story you tell yourself may contain elements that tell you this is so. But what if you were to remember you are a soul beneath the armor? What if you took down the barriers and walked into a party with no shields front or back? We dare say you would find others smiling back at you, completely disarmed. You see, guardedness begets guardedness. Freedom attracts attention, smiles, curiosity, and connection. You are safe. You are here to shine.
You are so very loved.
Great symbolizm in your picture. Lol. That cracked me up.
But another truth in connection to that picture is that the person, in such armour, feels emptier than empty armour. They are not to be laughed at.
They need to learn to accept comfort, guidance, and … likely just some true friendship. They need to be reminded what a joy it is to not have friends that are like those laughing, ignoring, degrading type.
An empty shell comes in many forms.
And for those laughing, degrading empty shells, …they too need the same things.
Love people. Love.
That’s what all that needs.