Someone recently inquired why I abandoned another person so hastily. I merely smiled and chose to remain silent. Although I attempted to articulate my thoughts, I soon realized she might not comprehend the matter at hand; after all, she is charming and likable. How could she possibly grasp the pangs of rejection? What insight could she possess regarding that dreadful sensation of self-doubt that ensues with each “no,” even before a question has been posed?
I do not consider it to be an act of selfishness to walk away in order to preserve one’s own well-being. I have found myself in a situation before where I...