Boundaries Property and Community Civility

When I feel that my boundaries may be violated by someone I have ways of avoiding them. I am lucky that way. Not everyone has a career of solitude and a front door, back door side door. In the 20 years of living here I have had spells of avoiding various neighbors for days, weeks, months, or years at a time. Once I am out walking my dog on the street I don't avoid anyone. I greet them happily and with a smile but when I am home or in my yard having lunch, gardening or trimming my shrubs, I relish the boundaries protecting my sanctuary.

I did not learn how to have a sanctuary when I was growing up. In fact I was violated continually as a child. I learned this as an adult. Now that I understand this I feel blessed to be able to have a reasonable life.