From the outside looking in, I imagine many people assume that (in comparison) everyone else is living a fairly happy and content life...
A lovely home, a faithful partner, a great career, good friends, a wealth of opportunities, endless joyful moments, decent finances, fit and healthy, attractive, desired—wants for nothing.
“What problems could they possibly have?”
“It’s alright for them.”
However, the reality for many—whether they choose to share it or not—is often very different. Home can be chaotic: overcrowded, filled with clutter or in need of endless repairs, or tense because of difficult dynamics with the people they live with. There may be frequent arguments with a partner, children with complex needs, career setbacks, or financial strain—living paycheque to paycheque. Some might currently battle health issues, feel unattractive due to skin/hair problems, or deal with secret haters and gatekeepers disguised as friends. Others could be struggling to make emotional or mental progress—leading to sadness, feelings of worthlessness, and a deep longing for more.
But assumptions are false judgments... right?
Many of us assume nobody cares, so we put on a front about the life we’re living.
Some assume they’re the only one who feels lonely or alone.
A lot of us assume everyone else is doing better than we are.
And then there are those who assume no one can be trusted. I know, I know... Being let down, lied about, taken advantage of, exposed/outed or exploited can push you to keep your truth to yourself. You likely believe you’re protecting yourself from further harm and disappointment. But what if it’s the opposite? What if you just haven’t found
your people—your circle—those who, without judgment, will always be ready to support you with achieving your dream life?
Take a step back. Look at yourself in the mirror and get honest with yourself about why you stay where you already know you shouldn't be, and why (perhaps) you run from where you
do want to be. Listen to your body. How do you feel about yourself? How do you feel when in the company of certain people versus when you're not? Pay attention to those feelings because that’s how you learn who is truly for you and who isn’t. Sometimes, the people we assume aren’t right for us—especially if we’re going off rumours or the opinions of others—might actually be the ones who would never intentionally let us down or hurt us...
Use your past experiences with toxic or harmful individuals to help you better navigate and manage new connections. Learn to spot both the red flags and the green ones. There are genuine kind-hearted people in this world—people who support, give, help, and nurture simply because they can and want to. They care about you. No hidden agendas. No judgment. No assumptions. Just honest love, respect, and consideration.
Trust your instincts (trust yourself), and trust that God will always guide you right.
Image 1 - Google. Image 2 - (Copyright) Charley Jai
