For years, relationships left me drained. I’d start each one full of hope, thinking this time someone might really see me and stay. But small disagreements turned into huge fights. I’d pour everything in, trying to fix things, only to end up hurt again. The breakups piled up, and so did the emptiness.
What hurt almost as much was how everyone else reacted. Friends I trusted started talking behind my back. They’d give unsolicited advice that felt more like criticism. Family meant well, but their questions, “What went wrong this time?” made me feel like a failure. I could sense the disappointment in their voices, even when they tried to hide it.
Then there were the neighbours and casual acquaintances. A simple hello at the mailbox came with a knowing look. At gatherings, conversations went quiet when I walked up. I’d overhear whispers: “Another one didn’t work out” or “Maybe relationships just aren’t for them.” Those indirect comments stung badly. I felt exposed, like my private pain was up for public discussion.
I wanted out of that cycle, but it felt impossible. Everywhere I turned, someone had an opinion about my life. It took time to realise their judgements said more about them than me. Slowly, I started protecting my peace and letting go of what others thought. To read more, https://drbokko.com/?p=35870.
