Not everyone will cheer for you when you start to rise.

That’s been one of the hardest and most heartbreaking lessons in this chapter of my life. As I’ve worked to rebuild, realign, and rediscover myself—some of the people I thought would be in my corner have either fallen silent or quietly stepped away. And in a few cases, they didn’t go quietly at all.

There’s something about healing that makes certain people uncomfortable. When you stop playing the role they’ve always expected, when you set new boundaries, find your voice, and actually begin to live for yourself—it shakes things up. Especially for those who benefited from the version of you that stayed quiet, dimmed your light, or poured from an empty cup.

I’m starting over at 47 with eyes wide open. After heartbreak, loss, betrayal, and deep reflection, I’m finally building a life that reflects who I really am—not who I had to be for others. And while I’m finding so much joy in this process, I’m also realizing that my peace, my progress, and even my happiness… doesn’t sit well with everyone.

Some people drifted away the moment I began to stand up for myself. Others pulled back when I chose love and companionship that didn’t fit their narrative. And a few simply disappeared when I stopped participating in the dysfunction. At first, it hurt. Deeply. I questioned myself—wondered if I was doing something wrong.

But now I see it clearly: they weren’t rejecting me, they were rejecting the version of me that no longer served them. And the truth is… that version of me needed to go.

I’m not angry anymore. I’m sad sometimes, yes—but not angry. I’ve come to understand that not everyone can grow with you. Some are meant to be part of your story for a season, not a lifetime. And that’s okay.

I’m learning to release people without resentment. I’m learning that healing doesn’t require anyone else’s approval. And I’m learning that my happiness doesn’t have to be understood by everyone in order to be real.

If you’re in the middle of a transformation and noticing the silence from those you expected to clap—don’t let it stop you. Keep building. Keep becoming. Your peace, your joy, and your healing are worth every uncomfortable goodbye.

This is my life now—and it’s beautiful, even if some people can’t see it.

With love and strength,

Aunty Christine 🫶🏻💜🤟🏻