I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately. About where I’ve been, what I’ve been through, and the person I’m becoming because of it all. My journey hasn’t been perfect, but it’s mine, and I’m finally learning to be proud of that.

I may be single. I may not have “found my someone” yet. And maybe… I never will. But I’ve realized something important: my happiness no longer depends on anybody else.

I’ve learned the hard way what it feels like to give everything. My love, my time, my energy to people who only take. I’ve learned what it’s like to feel used, unheard, and unappreciated. But I’ve also discovered just how strong I can be when I finally choose myself.

And no, I wasn’t perfect. I’ve never claimed to be. That doesn’t erase the fact that I loved fully, deeply, and gave everything I had.

I don’t say shit with my chest. I say it with my heart.

I’m focused on building a life that feels right to me. I’m working on my goals, protecting my peace, and creating space only for people who truly value me. I’m no longer settling for being someone’s backup plan, stepping stone, or safety net.

I don’t need to force a “happy ending” to prove anything to anyone. My story is still being written — and this time, I get to write it on my own terms.

I don’t need to pretend I’m living a life I’m not. I don’t need to prove anything to anyone with borrowed moments or borrowed things. My peace isn’t performative — it’s real.

I’ve been through enough to know one thing for sure: I’d rather be single and at peace than give pieces of myself to someone who doesn’t deserve them.

I will never apologize for expecting the love, respect, and loyalty I once gave so freely. I will never again settle for less than I deserve.

This is my turning point. My story is no longer about who hurt me — it’s about who I’m becoming. And for the first time in a long time, I feel free.

Because deep down, I know this: I gave everything I had, even to those who hurt me the most. And now, I’m finally giving it all back to me.