i realized how much disrespect i accepted just because i wanted love. i stayed in places that made me feel unwanted because i was afraid of being alone. i kept making excuses for people who kept hurting me and ignored the things that broke my heart. i accepted late replies, broken promises, and the feeling of always being the one trying harder. i settled for the bare minimum and convinced myself it was enough. i kept hoping that if i loved them more, they would finally love me the same way. now, i understand that love doesn't ask you to abandon yourself just to keep someone else, and no relationship is worth losing yourself just to be loved.