Entry 183 - This Thought Crosses My Mind Sometimes

1/10/20

Sometimes I worry that one of my close friends will be threatened by my openness and authenticity.

That what I say might destroy the fence they put around their beliefs

And it would be easier to let go of our friendship then to grow in our friendship

I'm afraid that my curiosity will be taken with hostility instead for opportunity to grow 

Then instead of talking it through with you

They talk about you

Instead of listening to you

They try hard to forget about you

Because silence is more comfortable than having their beliefs challenged

Not because of you, but because of what you stand for

But then I realize I can't help if someone can't handle new outlooks and perspectives

I can't help if someone puts their identity in their beliefs

I can't help if people are threatened because it doesn't fit the narrative they grew up hearing

But if two paths were meant to diverge, then all I can say is good luck and God bless

I guess I shouldn't worry

Because maybe their purpose in your life was a lesson

And then you can really appreciate them as you both let go 

Then when you look back you have no regrets

Because you chose to be authentic with who you are and not hide behind a mask to please them

And because of that, you gave them the choice to take it or leave it

And if they decided to leave, then you're grateful 

Because you'd rather have someone leave then pretend to want to stay

So you gently close the door behind them and go forward on your journey right where you left off