Since I "contracted" tinnitus several years ago, I've been conscious of my stress levels. The hissing, ringing and whirring seem to elevate under trying circumstances.
So, I'm shedding activities and people who increase my stress levels.
Two "friends" of mine are judgmental, argue in a mean-spirited way, bully and take jabs at me.
I've known both of them a LOOOOONG time and the friendships have been beneficial -- at times. But, maybe it's age but it's getting more exhausting being around them. But, rather than engage, I tread carefully around them so as not to trigger their dark side. It's my fault that I've tolerated this in the name of friendship. And, in putting up with their crap, I've taken into account how they have helped me. But, how long does one put up with this because of a few moments when they were nice. It seems there is a time stamp on how long you owe someone for a long-ago kindness.
But I 'get' how trying to maneuver around them is as stressful as taking them on.
So, I'm not going to take them into 2022. I will continue to send birthday cards but I'm going to avoid phone calls, sit down events and having any purposeful contact.
In the end, it's about my well being, health and keeping my stress levels under control.
These two women spike my stress.
I'm too kind of a person to have mean people who are weighted down by their own issues. So, their friendship will be sacrificed in the bigger purpose of managing stress, staying healthy and loving me.
SO THERE!
