anna,

I guess I'm like you. I have often opened my home (& my heart) to those I didn't know yet. I have rarely been burned &, to date, never badly. I acknowledge that life carries risks, but I also consider what I might gain. Communication & relationship carry high value for me. I suppose I could sit alone in my house & be relatively safe, but I cherish the experiences & the friendships I've had because I was willing to reach out. If I get burned, I may reconsider my approach. For now, I'm going w/ my instincts.

best to you all,

bbc