08/28/2026
I overstayed in my marriage because that was the only relationship in which I was my real self: where I expressed my emotions and attempted to share my needs.
I thought I had the perfect fantasy life: the marriage, the house, the business. The truth was, I was constantly triggered and invalidating myself in my mind, walking on eggshells, unable to see that I couldn’t hold it all alone.
I had all these “deep” friendships in which I was never truly vulnerable. I never shared my feelings and needs because I was so terrified of rejection.
My relationships were so empty because I lived in a world centered around escaping abandonment. I wasn’t motivated by authentic connection. That was way too scary for me.
Revealing myself was terrifying. I risked my heart, I risked abandonment. But when I finally got divorced, I kind of felt like I had no choice.
I started to unravel, and the road back to myself included showing who I am to others, even if that meant being left.
Suddenly, people started showing up. People who truly loved me and accepted me for who I really am.
I got to a get together of my best friends and on the way, I passed my old house that I shared with my ex partner. I was sobbing and when I arrived, and I knew I had a choice: put myself together, slap a fake smile on my face, or reveal my heart. I chose the latter.
I texted them, “I’m in the car and I need a hug” and fell apart in their arms. That day I walked away a little less scared of abandonment and most importantly, feeling deeply held by life itself.
Let safe people know you and see you. You’re worthy of it. I honestly can’t remember the last time I felt lonely - because I chose to let people in now.
Your soul wants to live this life fully. To love fully. To reveal yourself to safe people. Don’t just exist. Fully live.