We are intended to survive. It is programmed within each of us. It also means that we will do whatever we deem is necessary in order to survive. That means we must adapt to any situation that comes our way. In his case, he survived by cocooning himself. He’s been doing it so long that it has become a habit and, as you well know, habits are difficult to break. Even more so with him since it is a behavioral one.

I have an absolute belief that everyone needs to experience all the difficulties they encounter. However, if I deem it necessary or if it is sought from me then I will do my best to guide these individuals back on a harmonious path. The difficulty lies in how much I should help for everyone’s situation measures differently. I do keep to a rule to try to do as little as possible, however, as I do not want to appear as if I am in control (control being an illusion) but also because ‘over-guiding’ may lead to the manifestation of ego (a destructive nature) resulting in imminent self-chaos.

Perhaps you can try expanding his mind through various self-discovering material. Initiate deeper conversations to stimulate his mind, mention philosophy or religions or anything that may help broaden his perspective(s). If you believe it will not harm him, perhaps even mention that he is someone you care for as a human being and would like to see happy. Mention that he is free to be as open as he would like to be when he converses with you. Do take care of your own mentality in this affair, however. Make sure to not hold yourself responsible should you do not succeed. Be satisfied that you at least tried. Understand that you, too, are imperfect and do not have all the answers. Your own inner peace is just as important. And, as I’ve mentioned, this may be an experience he must undertake for his own growth.

Best of luck to you,
Al