-A Lie
I decided to focus on family, choosing to believe and have faith that everything else would fall into place. I wasn't comfortable-or good-at lying to her.
So, when Samantha surprised me one day by swallowing her pride and asking directly if a...
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
A couple of things I'd like to point out before you read on: events that may seem gratuitous were included for reasons beyond titillation, which I hope will become clear as you continue reading. From my perspective, there were no options that could have salvaged either relationship. Although I would take back certain actions if I could, I believe the breakups were both inevitable and the right decisions.
What will these words reveal about me and the others? That is for you to determine, shaped by your own experiences and opinions. I've come to accept my actions and have learned to rely less on the approval of others. I am grateful for those who believe in me today. I strive to be nonjudgmental and open-minded when hearing of others' failures and to pay forward the positive reinforcement I've been fortunate to receive.
The memories shared here purposely exclude details of the children's reactions to certain events. They were children navigating challenges that would be difficult at any age. My love for them is undeniable and unending...and even though sounds cheesier than the Kraft Mac'n'Cheese beloved by each as children, it remains unconditional.
These glimpses into the past were deliberately chosen to reflect my state of mind and provide insight into who I am. Some are significant and pivotal, while others are inconsequential and included for lightheartedness. The account is honest but told from my perspective and shaped by the subjectivity of my memories.
I don't know how differently these stories might read if told by the others involved, but of this I am certain: we have all loved and been loved. Each of us has caused hurt, and each of us has been hurt in turn. We have all lost something, and I have no doubt that each of us carries regrets.
