understanding another heart

I have defended and protected myself for so many years
losing the gentle connection to my heart;
I do not know how to love in an unguarded way.
I keep waiting for the right circumstances,
the right partner, the right moment to be vulnerable.
I could go on waiting endlessly,
missing the very opportunity gifted from the universe before me…

When I allow myself to be acknowledged
and loved for my essential uniqueness,
which feels both vulnerable and frightening,
and choose to acknowledge and love another,
totally and without reservation,
I arrive at the heart of understanding.

I may embark on this journey
burdened by my past disappointments
and fearing yet another failure,
Or
I can trust the dual yearning of our hearts.
Leading me beyond my current limitations and defenses
until I eventually know myself and another
deeper -
at our most exposed and authentic levels.