I HAVE BECOME A PERSON WHO LOOKS AT MYSELF ~

It took me a long time to understand that no matter how much I explain my side, some people will twist it to fit their narrative. I used to pour my heart out, desperately hoping they would see the truth, but I’ve learned the hard way.

If someone really wants to understand, they won’t ask.

If you’ve decided that I’m the villain in your story, that’s okay. I’m not going to keep bending over backwards trying to prove that I’m good enough, worthy enough, or innocent enough.

In fact, the more I explain, the more power I give to someone who doesn’t want to hear it.

Let them believe what they want.

Let them say it’s all my fault.

Let them stay stuck in their version of events.

Let them!

I’m not going to defend myself anymore. Because I’ve realized something important – explaining myself over and over again doesn’t bring peace. It’s just exhausting. It only reinforces their narrative, because if they really wanted to understand, they would have listened in the first place.

I am recharging my energy.

I am stepping away from the endless cycle of justification and argument.

I deserve a connection where I don’t have to fight to have my truth seen.

If my silence makes you uncomfortable, don’t be uncomfortable.

If my choice not to explain feels like a defeat to you, that’s up to you.

I don’t care anymore about trying to win a battle I never agreed to fight.

I am done begging for understanding.

I am done begging for the kindness, respect, and empathy that should be freely given.

I am done putting myself on trial that was unfair to begin with.

The only explanation I have is for myself: that I chose silence over their resentment.

I choose to move forward without the burden of continuing to try to be heard by people who are committed to misunderstanding me.

Let them think what they want.

Good for them.

I will not explain myself anymore. So, frankly, I don't need to.

~Credit to author Instagram/Liz H. KirkPatrick