I used to worry a lot about what people thought of me. What I said, what I wore, who I dated, how I lived. It was like carrying around a backpack full of other people’s opinions—and let me tell you, it was heavy.
Then one day, something shifted. Maybe it was heartbreak. Maybe it was betrayal. Maybe it was the realization that you can bend over backwards for people and they’ll still whisper about you behind your back. Whatever it was, I dropped that damn backpack and walked away lighter.
Grief Will Clarify Things Real Fast
Losing my mom broke me open in ways I couldn’t have prepared for. The pain was immense, but so was the clarity. I started seeing things (and people) for who they really were. Some relationships faded. Others exploded. And you know what? I survived all of it.
When you’ve lived through that kind of loss, you stop wasting energy on trying to fit into boxes that were never meant for you.
Opinions Don’t Pay My Bills (Or Make Me Happy)
Living life on your own terms is liberating—but it’s also intimidating to people who prefer when you’re small and quiet. Trust me, I’ve seen the looks. I’ve heard the whispers.
But here’s the thing: I’m not here to be agreeable. I’m here to be me. Loud, soft, silly, messy, healing, evolving… and completely uninterested in anyone’s approval but my own.
Let Them Talk. I’ll Be Over Here Living.
I have dreams—big ones. I’ve got love in my life, laughter in my home, dogs who adore me, and a backyard that makes me feel like I’m on vacation.
I’ve made peace with the fact that not everyone will get it. Some people are just background noise on your way to something beautiful. Let them gossip while you grow.
So if you’re still carrying the weight of what everyone else thinks—set it down. Walk lighter. Laugh louder. Be yourself, unapologetically.
They’ll talk either way, honey. Might as well give them something fabulous to talk about.
Big hugs, bold choices, and maybe a mimosa,
Aunty Christine 💛
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