“Boundaries define us. They define what is me and what is not me. A boundary shows me where I end and someone else begins, leading me to a sense of ownership. Knowing what I am to own and take responsibility for gives me freedom.” – Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend
As a young bride, I held onto a vision of settling down in a cozy home, much like the one my grandmother cherished for decades. Her rootedness, stability, and the legacy of love in that home inspired my own dreams. However, life had different plans, leading us down a winding path of unexpected moves and transitions.
Each move, though challenging, becomes a stepping stone guided by a higher purpose. It’s reminiscent of the hymn, “Lead, Kindly Light,” where the lyrics echo my sentiments: “I loved to choose and see my path; but now, Lead thou me on! So long thy pow’r hath blest me, sure it still will lead me on.”
In these transitions, I discovered something profound about boundaries—they aren’t just physical spaces; they are sanctuaries of peace and nourishment for the soul. Each new home became a canvas where I painted scenes of love, learning, and growth. It was within these boundaries that my family and I found solace and strength amidst life’s uncertainties.
As a homemaker, I crafted more than just a physical dwelling; I created a haven where my family could thrive emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. Our home became a boundary, a protective barrier from the chaos of the world, where we curated what entered and what stayed outside.
But boundaries extend beyond the walls of our home. They are the lines we draw within ourselves, safeguarding our thoughts, beliefs, and values—the home of our soul. Setting these internal boundaries becomes an act of self-love, a declaration of what we hold dear and sacred.
Just as each move led us to new places and people we came to love, embracing boundaries allowed us to define our path and create a life of purpose and fulfillment. It’s a reminder that boundaries aren’t restrictions; they are the foundation of freedom—the freedom to choose, to grow, and to love deeply.
Like the hymn, “Lead, Kindly Light,” guides us, the journey of setting and honoring boundaries leads us onward, not just aimlessly but toward a destination of wholeness, happiness, and freedom.
It’s a path that invites us to choose and see our way, trusting in the guiding light of wisdom and divine purpose. As we navigate the boundaries that define us and create spaces for growth and authenticity, we move closer to a life we love to live, a life of joy, fulfillment, and genuine connection with ourselves and others. May each step we take, guided by the courage to set boundaries rooted in self-love, lead us onward to the beautiful tapestry of a life lived whole, happy, and free.
