Acknowledging that it's okay to be affected by past events

 It sucks to acknowledge that the dissolution of my marriage left lasting effects on me. But, like, here we are.

I can't tell if it's a Midwestern thing or not, this belief that continuing to be harmed by past events is a sign of weakness. Either way, it's supremely unhelpful in learning how to exert the kind of boundaries I need to feel safe.

Because I don't right now.