Toxic relationships do not always announce themselves. They usually start as love, loyalty, and good intentions. Mine did. I had a college girl group. We were supposed to be forever. Then jealousy crept in. Little digs. Eye rolls. Competition disguised as humor. I ignored my instincts because I wanted to believe people could grow out of insecurity.
I stayed too long. I tried too hard. Eventually I realized something life-changing. Jealousy is not a small personality trait. It is a warning sign. You cannot heal someone else’s insecurity. You cannot love someone without liking themselves. When someone resents your success or joy, the relationship becomes unsafe for your spirit.
I walked away. It hurt. Then it felt like freedom.
Now I live by a simple rule. If I feel smaller around you, you do not get access to me.
- Protect your peace like it is oxygen. Because it is.
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