When you love someone who’s deeply avoidant, it feels like living between two worlds. Theirs is chaotic — full of hurt, fear, and distance. Mine was built on care, patience, and love. But somehow, I kept trying to meet them where they were, thinking love could fix what pain had broken.
It took me a long time to realize that I didn’t have to live in their world just to be loved. Their chaos isn’t proof of depth, and my peace isn’t something to be ashamed of.
So now I ask myself, again and again: why would I want to join their world when mine is already good? The truth is, I don’t. I’d rather protect my peace than lose myself trying to rescue someone who isn’t ready to be saved.
— Lauren, 38, Seattle, WA
