Intimacy and Authenticity.

Intimacy and authenticity are two sides of the same coin.

Intimacy and authenticity are two sides of the same coin. Without authenticity—without showing up as our real selves—there can be no intimacy. Intimacy requires the communication of two beings, two essences. When we hide behind masks, trying to be someone we're not rather than revealing our truth, intimacy does not occur.

Authenticity is possible when we can courageously say no, as that is a commitment to stay with the truth of the moment.

It's akin to following the breath or the tidal waves of life pulsing within us. Here is the tide coming in  - a yes, engagement. And here it goes out - a no, withdrawal. Both are happening, neither can be taken out. 

Following these tidal waves, this breath of life breathing through our bodies unapologetically - that’s what authenticity is. 

When we can be true to our no, then we can fully be true to our yes; otherwise, it remains an ambiguous maybe. Leaving us with a feeling of life happening to us without our participation in it. 

Usually, we let our minds guide us rather than following the deeply embodied sensation of a yes or a no. Minds make decisions based on what they think is appropriate, polite, nice, trying to be lovable.

But trying to be lovable is one of the main obstacles to being sincerely loved. Because we often hide our true selves behind a mask of sweetness. And masks, no matter how beautiful, prevent souls from coming closer.

When a being true to it Self meets another true being, intimacy happens. 

Intimacy is a flow of love between two points of attention. 

It is love recognizing itself in the other when our minds get out of the way.