I know I’ve been on a boundaries and limit-setting path
lately but only because that’s where I am in my life. While I don’t want to
beat a dead horse, after spending the weekend with my mom something very
important came to me and I had to share it with you. I’ve talked about the
types of boundaries and who to set limits with. We’ve also talked about moving
the line when needed and how to reinforce those limits.
But I have neglected the obvious and it’s this: Keeping
boundaries is h-a-r-d work. A week with my mother has served as a good
reminder. It’s hard work to be ok with constant discomfort. My whole weekend
with my mom was awkward because I refuse to give in to her demands that I live
a certain way and speak a certain way. It is uncomfortable to constantly watch
someone you love bang their head against your boundary.
Furthermore, it is painful to feel the distance between you
and that family member or that person you love because you refuse to give in to
whatever they want you to do or say or be.
Why am I telling you this? Because if you feel this way,
then you are doing it exactly right! Yay for you! I can tell you after a week
of living in this constant state of being on guard I am exhausted to the point
of tears. I am sad that I feel so far removed from my mom. But I am proud of
myself for holding my ground. I feel excited that I am healthy enough to stand
up for myself with someone who says she loves me acts that way.
You are not alone. You can do this. You may not get it right
the first time. Or the sixteenth. But keep trying. Don’t give up. You can do
it!
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