Deeply Known

I am always present, yet I am often hidden,
I am elusive and hard to grasp, yet I am never forbidden,
I can bring comfort and solace, yet I can also cause pain,
I am something we all seek, yet we fear what we might gain.

What am I?

To be known deeply and truly is one of the foundations of human life, health, and emotional security. Marriage can be this type of relationship, when healthy, when both partners are secure and honest, and most of all, as the riddle explains, vulnerable.

To be deeply known is to be without deception, honest, and forthright. Without this type of vulnerability, there is no real communication between people.

This reality is rarely seen among civil groups, clubs, or religious parties. It can be learned and practiced and yield a wonderful and delightful intimacy that is beyond the imagination.

Genesis 2:25: “The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.” This is gospel. Live it.