"We shall not find life by refusing to let go of our precious, protected selves"

Rowan Williams' quote, "We shall not find life by declining to let go of our precious, secured selves," talks to the extensive concept that real fulfillment and understanding of life typically need us to step beyond the borders of self-preservation and convenience.

Intrinsic in this declaration is the acknowledgment that humans tend to produce protective barriers around themselves. These barriers can be emotional, intellectual, or even physical, sheltering us from viewed dangers or unpredictabilities. Typically, they are crafted from our fears, insecurities, and the desire to keep a sense of control. By describing these as our "precious, secured selves," Williams highlights how we hold these constructs dear, even when they restrict our potential for growth and connection.

Williams' suggestion that we "will not find life" suggests that real life, in its max sense, exists beyond these self-imposed boundaries. To "discover life" suggests finding significance, function, and a sense of belonging that goes beyond mere existence. It hints at experiencing the richness of life's possibilities, which might include deeper connections with others, the pursuit of enthusiasms, and engaging with the wider world on a significant level.

Letting go of our "precious, secured selves" involves vulnerability, a desire to embrace uncertainty, and the courage to face obstacles without the armor of pretense or extreme care. It implies being open to change, to originalities, and to the possibility of failure-- all of which are integral to individual development and the development of authentic relationships.

Eventually, Williams' quote invites us to review our own lives, questioning what "walls" we have actually put up around ourselves and whether they are keeping us from experiencing life fully. By releasing these self-imposed restrictions, we welcome the potential for change, enabling us to lead lives that are not only fuller but likewise more authentic and thoroughly gotten in touch with the world and people around us.