If the glimpses of kindness and potential are what’s keeping you going, then eventually you’ll start accepting even harsh things as good. If you find yourself so grateful for the smallest common courtesy, you’re hanging your hope on nothing but air. If your friends think you are accepting too little and at the same time you’re wondering if you’re expecting too much, pay attention to that. And if you’re too afraid to talk about any of this with your wise friends, that’s not just a red flag—it’s a full-on fire.
