I think its so easy to become embittered by the cruelty of the world.
There’s an abundance of it out there and it’s no wonder people become cranky and resentful.
Life can be shit.
Then on the other side of the spectrum is naivety and falling to pieces at each setback.
So, to borrow a concept from Buddha, I think the goal is a middle way with a horses for courses type approach.
You develop both the hardening side and the softening side of yourself.
Then for the final flourish you figure out when to employ each part.
So that when you’re with your inner circle you can be vulnerable and cry in front of them and when you’re amongst wolves you can take a fighting stance.
Softening and hardening at the same time.
