“That’s the way it is.”

That one phrase from one of the smartest people I know; I felt so lucky to hear that on the other end of the phone. I would have never known it, but I needed to hear it, too. I’ve spent a lot of time asking myself why. I asked a lot of whens and wheres, as well. It got a little harder each time because I couldn’t give myself any answers.

I’ve always been told I was too nice for my own good. How else could I have been? It was all I knew. Living for other people is how I grew up. I learned, though. It took one of the most painful experiences of my life that brought me almost continuous anxiety, and some nausea, but I learned. It was something I never could have taught myself.

It all ended when I was asking myself some hows and I heard your simple response, like you were answering all of my questions, too. I don’t ask those questions anymore.

That’s the way it is.