I kinda agree with this and kinda don't, Luella...Re: Stop Defending Your Self-Image

On the one hand, many of us have a professional image we have to maintain. We represent a product or a company or a concept to the public. We can't let our guard down. We have to be sharp, confident, quick thinking, "people" people, salesmen, poised, organized, well groomed, and effective communicators. We are leaders and role models. We have a reputation within our communities or businesses to maintain.

On the other hand, we all need a safe place to just "be," and I think this is what Deepak is referencing. I think we women are at an advantage here, because we can chat "all day" with our girlfriends, sisters, and mothers about our feelings, and are assured of ample empathies and shared stories. I think it's important that we cultivate close friendships so that we can share our deepest secrets and know we won't be judged for them.

The men I know have a much more difficult time letting go of their male ego personas and showing "the real man." Feelings for a lot of men seem to be limited to "good," or "bad," and maybe "angry." I think it's important for males to have a fishing buddy or to be able to go camping for some male bonding time. I think it's important, too, for women to help men open up and express their true feelings. Perhaps we can do that best through humor and just having fun together.

What a gift it is to have friends who love you just the way you are and don't carry any expectations. Those are the friends you will treasure for life. :)

Wings