The point is not that I need to lie down naked in front of God. The point is that lying down naked in front of God wouldn’t change anything. His dignity toward me is steadfast, no matter how many layers I choose to wear or not to wear.

The factors that calibrate human relationships cannot manipulate God.

I cannot change His thoughts toward me with a face—my pleasant face, neutral face, tired face, or I’ve-had-it face.

Makeup or the lack thereof, pimples and scars and freckles and wrinkles, splotchy or smooth skin—these do not inform God’s opinion of me.

Nor does greasy, flat hair or frizzy, wild hair affect the space between us.

No item of clothing in my wardrobe will invite Him closer, or keep Him at a safe distance.

I cannot chase Him away by being dull; nor do I keep Him close with intelligence or charm.

I cannot stun Him with silence, nor overwhelm Him with words.

I cannot frighten Him with cursing, nor improve His esteem by sharing my deepest insights.

All the ways I present myself to the people around me are no presentation to God. He sees it all, for He is keenly aware of me. And, with or without it, His embrace remains.

I cannot control Him, for He is not human, but divine.

His first ingredient is love, and I cannot dilute Him.