There is only one rule: once you put something in, you cannot take it out.
Imagine an empty container before time. It is yours. You can put anything in it you want. You can pile it in haphazardly, or you can plan and place methodically. Once you think you have it filled, you can stop or you can make more room. To rearrange and organize items in your container, you must climb in; you must be hands-on; responsible. Each container is open at the top and appears to be just taller than your outstretched fingers, about that same length, and as wide as you are tall. On its outside, each container has a built-on platform running the length of one side. There are visiting hours, (which you do not always get to set), when others can climb onto the platform and peer into your container. As you grow, your container grows.
During visiting hours, you will hear opinions, advice, judgements; and you will be swayed. You will work to hide this item or that item. You will move one item to a more prominent position, you will work to repair another item, and you will work to sell your items even though they are and always will be your items. You will display nice-looking items that are mere shells, empty boxes that make your container look more full. And you will scruff up a few items to make your container look more authentic; hard-earned.
After a period of time listening to everybody, you will find you agree with some and disagree with others. During their visiting hours, you will more frequently visit the containers of those you agree with and you will more frequently avoid peering into the containers of those that you disagree with; those that make you uncomfortable. You will (consciously and subconsciously) begin modeling your container to complement the containers of those you admire, those you respect, those who have gained your confidence, in hopes that they will approve and perhaps copy some individual elements from your container. You will work toward your security, your tranquility, your comfort; you will be disappointed; you may grow weary, become discouraged, complacent; you will be uncertain, you will struggle, you may question and challenge, you may prevail, you will laugh, you will cry, you will smile; you will work toward satisfaction, an ultimate topping off, a conclusion; you will stop growing.
Imagine your container, outside of time…
