It might sound silly but I’m writing this to myself because I need to hear it out loud from someone, anyone, and maybe that someone has to be me right now. Lately, I think I’ve been carrying so much; so many expectations, so many emotions, so many roles – all at once. I’ve tried to be the understanding one, the mature one, the kind one, the person who sees every side, the one who keeps everyone else afloat. And I’ve done it quietly, without complaint, because that felt like the “right” thing to do.
But today, I think I really needed to remind myself: I really don’t have to do it all. I don’t have to always be the strong one or the right one or the kindest one. I don’t have to understand or forgive or carry what isn’t mine alone. I can step back. I can pause. I can still take care of me first.
“You’re not wrong for feeling done. You’re human for feeling tired. And you’re brave for even admitting it out loud.
.
.
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It’s okay to take a step back and let others meet you halfway..”
I need to remember that it’s okay to expect others to meet me halfway. I’ve given so much, and sometimes it feels like no one notices, no one reflects it back, no one sees the weight I’m carrying. And that’s not a failure on my part or anyone’s responsibility either; it’s simply a reminder that not everyone is ready or willing to share the load (yet).
So I am finally giving myself permission: permission to rest, to apuse, and to just breathe. Permission to take a break without guilt, to slow down, and to check in with my own heart before anyone else’s. Permission to also protect my peace and my energy, because I have worked really hard for it and they are precious, and they matter.
So in the meantime… I will just be. I will let things unfold at their own pace and allow myself the patience I’ve long given to others.