i became that girl who enjoys being alone, who always puts her phone on 'dnd because silence feels better than waiting for people who don't really care. i became that girl who cuts people off easily, not out of hate, but because i finally understand that not everyone deserves a place in my life. i no longer beg anyone to stay, and i no longer break down when someone leaves. i became that girl who finally chooses herself first, the one who protects her peace of mind and doesn't feel sorry for needing distance. i no longer explain why i'm quiet, and i no longer try to make everyone understand. i realized that losing people is not the end of the world, but losing myself would be. now, i'm softer with myself, but stronger with my boundaries. i'm learning that the bravest thing i can do is to love myself enough to walk away from anything that takes away my peace.