It can take a lot of self-control to be the calm in the storm when someone you love is having a big reaction to a seemingly small trigger. It’s wonderful if your emotions can be an anchor for them to flail around, until they’re finally able to collapse into your peace—but if not, that’s okay. They have the right to express their feelings, but you also have the right to feel safe. If their storm is stronger than your calm, then time apart protects you both. The same is true from within the storm. My reactions are a form of communication, but I often find myself among people who don’t speak the
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