Behind the wallsWhen someone lets you behind the walls into the hidden recesses of their heart, always remember you are their guest.

You’ll see glorious things, hear their deepest innermost secrets, share in all their feels. Guard them. Treasure them. Respect them. They aren’t yours. Look but don’t touch. You’re in a fragile place.

Let them show you around at their own pace in their own way. They have their reasons. Good intentions won’t keep you from damaging something where even “I’m sorry” isn’t enough.

A fragile placeDon’t scare them. Don’t embarrass them. Don’t judge when they share the weak and vulnerable parts because they trust you. Don’t ask until they’re ready to answer. Don’t help presumptuously or you may only bring resentment, suspicion, and the false impression that you doubt their abilities.

If by chance you track in mud or knock something over, own up to it. Beg their forgiveness. Do whatever you can, whatever it takes, to reconcile. Just remember they may need time to heal. You may not even realize how little it takes to harm such a special place.

Words fail, sometimes by not being there, sometimes by being mistimed, sometimes by failing to give the right emotion in text form. Right words at the right time in the right way work like medicine. But sometimes just your presence and listening ear are enough. Listen and don’t speak or you’ll miss the whispers.A heart's cry

Be patient. Everything in its own time. You are their guest. Follow the tour they design. And if you ever want to live there, you must wait until your room is ready. Be needed and wanted for who you are. Don’t try to be what you’re not or do what you’re not asked. There’s a reason you were invited in the first place.

We click together. We lean on each other. We dance our own dance. We may step on each other’s toes until we coordinate the moves. Just don’t quit trying. Leave room for human imperfection. It’s magical, and it’s worth it in the end.

I cherish your heartI’ve listened and learned this lesson well, and I won’t neglect it. You know I would never intentionally cause you pain, harm, or discomfort. Your heart is too valuable and precious to ever treat lightly or selfishly. You know I cherish it above my own, and you know I am always here for you. Always.