Many of us live “close enough” to God to feel safe, but not close enough to be changed. Like the older son in Jesus’ parable, and like the cave‑dwelling villagers on the windward slopes, we remain near the Father’s house yet far from the Father’s heart. Proximity explores the climate of connection: the difference between being near God and being truly with God. Flourishing grows where intimacy grows. This post invites readers to move from awareness to abiding, from nearness to connectedness, and from spiritual dryness to relational warmth.