What if I stopped caring about pleasing you and everyone?
What if I felt safe even around people who are upset?
How much energy would I free up, and what would I do with it?
How much lighter would my body feel, would my breath flow easily?
Would I be able to sleep at night, without feeling hunted by your animosity?
Would my pounding heart simmer down, and my jaw unclench?
What would I think about, if I weren’t worrying all the time how to make you happy?
What if I told you that your feelings are your responsibility?
What if I liberated myself from unrealistic expectations?
What if I let go of expectations for others?
If you love me, it doesn’t feel like it to me.
I want positive, supportive, unconditional love from those who practice humility, humor, and curiosity.
I radiate those qualities when I’m not lost in a cave of depression.
When spelunking, bring a helmet and a light.
A helmet to protect you so that thoughts of suicide don’t become acts of suicide.
A light source as a spiritual anchor to remind you not to take yourself too seriously.