Dear Diary, They told me I was different, and their words made me feel like an outsider. I knew I was unique, but they framed it as a flaw. Their interactions felt like games, devoid of genuine love or acceptance. In response, I turned away from my own wants and needs, foolishly believing I could earn their affection by becoming someone else. Instead, they saw my efforts as desperation and took advantage. The pain of that experience wounded me deeply. Never again will I neglect myself. It stole me from my purpose, which I now realize is to be authentically me in God's presence, allowing Him to guide me toward the better self He knows I can be.