# Demarking the Lines

## Seeing Without Labels

Life draws lines everywhere. We mark people as friends or strangers, ideas as right or wrong, moments as successes or regrets. These marks help us navigate, but they also box us in. Demarking starts with noticing them—not erasing memories, but softening their edges. Imagine a notebook page covered in notes and underlines. Demarking is quietly lifting the pen, letting the words breathe plain and true.

## A Quiet Practice

It happens in small ways. When you meet someone new, skip the quick judgment; just listen. Facing a tough day, drop the scorekeeping of what went wrong. Even with yourself, ease the inner tally of shoulds and shouldn'ts. No grand rituals needed:

- Pause before assigning blame.
- Let a conversation unfold without preconceptions.
- End the day by mentally wiping one unnecessary line.

Over time, this uncovers space. Connections deepen when barriers fade.

## The Clarity That Emerges

Without heavy marks, the world sharpens. Colors seem brighter, talks more honest, choices freer. It's not about perfection or numbness—marks will return. Demarking is the gentle return to now, where things simply are. On this winter day in 2026, I demark my own hurried thoughts, finding unexpected calm.

*In demarking, we find not less, but more.*