Shield building is a way to protect yourself from unwanted emotional energies or attacks (picture an imaginary warrior's shield of energy). Some of us men have taken great care in ensuring that we don't build walls, but at the cost of being vulnerable to every invasion of our sense of self. Personal shields are not walls, and are used when necessary to protect yourself. You will find that you can still find your center behind a shield, but can also move it aside a little to allow a little vulnerability. If you don't need it at a time, you can put it away, always knowing that it is still there for when you do need it.

A great way to assist with personal shield building is to make a symbolic shield in the physical - build a simple shield (it doesn't have to be strong enough to take a sword blow - its just decorative), decorate it, understand its purpose, and hang it on a wall somewhere to remind you to always have your emotional shield ready for when it is needed.

If you have done this sort of thing, or know of anyone else who has, I would be greatly appreciative if you would share your knowledge or experience with the paganmen website.

blessings