I was told that I shouldn't be opinionated and just follow the norm because that's much simpler and far better for the majority.
I said, I don't want to conform to the norm especially its ill practices that negate my core values. I tried to explain--despite the misery it entails--all I care about is to know, practice, and tell what's good and truthful.
Then I was told one, not everyone likes or wants the truth. Two, if that's what you really want then don't cry and complain when you are abandoned and rejected. Third, don't expect anything from anyone.
Okay.
I will expect nothing from anyone. I will not long for acceptance and sense of belonging. I will not allow myself to want anything from anyone. And no complaints in doing so.
Okay.
Now, if other people also follow that and they expect nothing from me as well, then I think I can be just as I am without anyone's permission. And just do whatever. Because there are no expectations. No more bonds. No more reason to ache, to cry, to hope.
Okay.