Boundaries

Boundaries. By definition it's something that indicates the bounds or limits. There all sorts of boundaries. Actually physical boundaries, for instance the boundaries of walls in your house or the fence around your yard. Invisible boundaries, like city, state or country lines or personal boundaries, and even professional boundaries? Invisible but just the same, real.

What happens when someone oversteps a personal or professional boundary? I know that I get extremely uncomfortable when a stranger gets physically close to me - they're inside my personal space, my boundary. What about the boundaries we invoke upon ourselves? We all have boundaries that we live by, that restrict us, guide us, and even protect us. For example, laws or rules establish a form of boundaries. Cross the line, and voila, you may find yourself being punished or even worse, behind bars.

I have wrapped myself in boundaries for a long time. Internal boundaries. I withhold much of myself from most people, and few really truly know or understand me. What happens if my boundaries were to unravel? Would I remain much as I am at this given time? I don't know. I've had relationship boundaries pushed, twisted and crossed. My first husband and I had tons of issues related to boundaries - mostly due to his kids and ex-wife. (but that's a whole other blog!)

What happens when your personal boundaries are crossed? I've tried following the Golden Rule... to treat others as you expect to be treated in the same situation. And I can personally attest, it isn't always easy. But that's another blog... for now, I contemplate boundaries, those physical, invisible, real and imagined.