@Sandy Hamblin That doesn’t sound like rambling at all — it sounds like someone trying to make sense of hurt, mixed emotions, and where they stand with people they care about. I’m really glad you shared this. What stands out is how honest you were in that conversation. You spoke your truth, even through tears, and that takes a lot of strength — especially when you’re feeling dismissed or not fully heard. Being told your experience is “hearsay” when it’s something you lived through can feel incredibly invalidating. At the same time, I hear how much it meant when Rick said “family isn’t just blood.” That matters. And it sounds like you do have people who see you, value you, and consider you family — and that’s something real and grounding to hold onto. It also makes complete sense that you don’t want to continue a friendship with someone who has hurt you, lied, or made you feel pushed out. You’re allowed to choose peace over proximity. Sitting down to talk things out can sometimes bring clarity, but it doesn’t mean you have to open the door back up to the same kind of relationship. You can be respectful, honest, and still keep boundaries. And I want to gently reflect something back to you:You didn’t create this tension — you responded to how you were treated. There’s nothing wrong with wanting relationships that feel safe, mutual, and supportive. Also… the way you described this as feeling like a journal? That’s actually a really healthy way to process. You’re not dumping drama — you’re releasing what’s been sitting heavy. There’s a difference. If you do go into that campground conversation, you might keep it simple and grounded in what you need, something like: - how certain comments/actions impacted you - what you are (and are not) open to moving forward - and where your boundaries are And no matter how that conversation goes, it doesn’t change this truth:You are allowed to protect your peace and choose who gets access to your life.

@Sandy Hamblin I’m really glad you shared all of this with me and I want you to hear this clearly—there is nothing you need to apologize for when it comes to your emotions. Feeling deeply isn’t a weakness, it just means you’ve spent a lifetime caring. You weren’t taught how to stand your ground, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn it now. You’re already starting. The fact that you can recognize it, talk about it, and want something different—that’s strength right there. And you’re not alone in this… not now. I know it feels scary sometimes, especially with everything you’ve been through and the changes in your life. But family doesn’t always come from where we started—it can grow in the places we feel safe, seen, and accepted. And I’m really grateful you feel that here with us. You don’t have to become a completely different person overnight. We’re just going to take this one small step at a time. Here’s something simple to start with:The next time you feel yourself getting emotional or wanting to apologize, just pause for a second and say to yourself:“I’m allowed to feel this.” You don’t even have to say anything out loud to anyone else yet. Just start there. That’s how you begin standing on your own feet—quietly, gently, and in your own time. I’m here. You can talk to me anytime. And I’m really proud of you for opening up like this—it takes more courage than you probably realize.