I loved someone who never cheated on me, never raised a hand against me, and never insulted me. On paper, it looked like the perfect relationship.

But I was lonely.

Every important decision in my life felt like I was making it alone. When I got a new job, he barely cared. When I lost my dad, he told me to "stay strong" and disappeared for days. I kept making excuses because I thought love meant enduring.

One day I realized I wasn't asking for too much. I was asking the wrong person.

Leaving broke me. I cried for months. I questioned myself every night.

Today, I know that love without emotional support slowly destroys you. If I had another chance, I would still leave.

Sometimes the greatest act of self-love is walking away from someone who never truly showed up for you.

I will leave again and again...