Each time I leave the apartment, I face the sight of the opposite doorway’s mat. I am never sure if it is facing the right direction. Part of me wants to reverse it, so the words welcome visitors and delivery personnel. The other part of me knows my neighbour’s choice, not mine, is the answer. Someday, I will ask if it is a reminder as they leave. My underlying question is one of in or out, coming or going. With the start of a new day, the question sits unanswered.
Welcomes are exciting doorways to possibilities and the unknown. Welcoming new friends to the building is an emotional replay of embracing new ideas. Everything seems possible. Anything could happen. Whatever I imagine, it will be different. I realise the novelty of the first experience will wear off as it plays out with each coming and going. A remember from old replays in the present; “Don’t throw it all away now. You were sure of yourselves then. It’s still a sure thing!” (Hebrews 10.35)
Knowing one is “in” can give birth to confidence and courage. The first embrace rarely reveals the whole story. Being welcomed unconditionally, without hesitation, and as one is gives birth to knowing. Experience reminds me that this only grows with time. This reminder makes me realise that the conditions for knowing come from paying attention, celebrating its growth, and allowing the belief that grows as a result. It all begins with the first decision to step into the unknown.
When travelling, one has an opportunity to bring one’s home with them. I like the idea of formally reminding myself that home is where I belong when I walk into the day. It is a way of appreciating the foundation of one’s heart while infusing oneself with the confidence to act on one’s expressions of caring to make a difference.
One’s heart is ultimately one’s home. I choose who I will invite into my heart, including Divinity. My prayer is that I am as open to others as Divinity is to me.
