We are safe already

It’s not easy to grow up as a child among the adult rulers of the world. Faced with our fears, we may drop out of sight and lie low; or we may seek safety through attacks on others; or we may seek out those who already have power, binding our desires in exchange for their protection. The worst of all fears is maybe disapproval, the (at times all-too-accurate) feeling of love being withdrawn, as if forever. The mode of being we employ as children (simply in order to survive) may become part of the imprisoning mode of being as grown up adults. We need to realize that we are safe already, safe in our own experience, and thus freed from the rule of others. Until we realize this, we can never escape, experience joy, or grow to maturity.

Note:
These thoughts are from David Whyte, The Heart Aroused, pp.73–144.

Related post:
Book Review: The Heart Aroused