Original draft: July 18, 2014

I’ve never considered myself a “guarded” person necessarily. I’m quick to like new people and eager to trust others, preferring to give them the benefit of the doubt rather than assume the worst. I’m an open book in person and clearly here, and I really dislike keeping secrets about myself – better to save that energy for keeping any secrets entrusted to me.

(incl.)

So I’m just stacking bricks now, one by one, with every piece of pain, using the strength I’ve gained from opening up to someone as a way to shut back down.