He who dares not offend cannot be honest. – Thomas Paine

One of the main factors that sets great relationships apart from merely good ones is the depth of emotional intimacy. There are, of course, other factors that contribute, but authenticity, vulnerability, and deep emotional connectedness are right up there at the top of the list. When two people commit themselves to the process of deep-diving into the soul, they become, in the words of the writer Sam Keen, “psychonauts,” who – unlike astronauts who explore the outer reaches of space – choose, rather, to explore the inner depths of the heart and mind. This exploration requires courage, curiosity, motivation, and a spirit of adventure. It also requires a desire to be aware of and in touch with our emotions and perceptions, as well as a willingness to reveal and share what we are experiencing with others whom we deem to be trustworthy.