Innocent invasions
Privacy is all about personal space (and drawers). I realised this just the other day, when the lovely lady who irons my shirts and trousers kindly decided to reorganise my underwear and sock drawer. A sweet and professional gesture, albeit unexpected, to my surprise it felt like a small (though welcome) invasion of my personal space. It’s a bit like when someone moves in with you. It starts with clearing a space in the bathroom for a toothbrush, a hairbrush, maybe some lipstick, and before you know it, they’re fully moved in! The same goes for pets, children and hobbies. You start by giving them a tiny corner of your home, and soon enough, they delightfully take over!
This isn’t about protecting sensitive data or personal information. It’s about vital spaces, intimate places, that (when the time is right) we choose to share with those we care about.
“Privacy” takes on a new meaning in this context. It’s a metaphor for those seemingly insignificant moments that, from an outsider’s perspective, piece together the puzzle of our identity and daily life.
Looking at my sock drawer, I smile, realising that we’re only willing to let ourselves be “invaded” by those who approach with gentle steps and a tender touch. We open our home and our life to those who come close to make us happy, to love us, to make us better people.
I’ll never learn to iron shirts (even if I wanted to, I often just wouldn’t have the time), and I might never get used to keeping my drawers tidy. But I’ll always try to open the doors of my life to those who deserve it, without hesitation or fear of losing my own space.
Because shared spaces grow, just like our thoughts and these Sunday musings!
Thank you for making room for me in your life.
Until next time!