A guarded heart is one that has been through traumatic experiences and leaves a person unable to open up to new friends and loved ones easily. However, this doesn’t mean it’s completely impossible. Those of us with guarded hearts are often incredibly caring people who have been hurt in the past and, because of this, will do their best to keep their shields up around most people. Those with guarded hearts understand that desire for our hearts to melt back into love and though it seems far, that dream is closer than we think.

1. There comes a point when you have to be open to letting your guard down some.

2. But your mind and emotions will still need time to breathe.

3. Forgiveness can set you free from the bitterness.

4. The ones who do love you behind the guarded heart...really do mean it.

5. Life doesn't begin just when you find love...it begins now.

6. Life also doesn't stop when love ends...it's just a new beginning.

7. There is freedom in being comfortable in your emotions and who you are.

8. Also, there is boldness in doing that without apologizing to ones who are bothered by it.

9. Going slow and being scared when starting new relationships is okay.

10. Heck, even thinking about starting a relationship is scary.

11. It's okay to take time to trust someone.

12. Because there's no time wasted in getting to know someone deeper.

13. Give the person you think you might like a chance.

14. Fall back in love with your life in the smaller things.

15. And remember to fall back in love with yourself as well.

Above all else guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23