I’m not ungrateful. Painter’s gift is really a reminder to myself that she is not who she pretends to be, and because of that, I owe her nothing but time and distance.
The Things I Carry
61: Relational Blackjack
I was never confused about Painter’s decision to end the relationship. Although I was hurt and sad, I was never confused. I understood.
59: Thoughts on Kindness and Toxicity
Painter is unsafe and dangerous for me because I struggle to see her for what she does. I sometimes forget how skillful — and willing — she is at getting other people to carry her water.
55: Zero Sum Love, Redux
You are, however, not perfect. But neither is anyone else.
50: Stories of Blame
Painter sat at the defendants table and announced with absolute certainty, “This is all your fault.”
And I wonder, “Which part is my fault?”