>> Now I now a mature person would not let that hurt,

I think recognizing your feelings, being able to protect yourself when necessary, is a sign of maturity. I think someone who "doesn't hurt" is just hiding that hurt from others and maybe even from themselves. In terms of enlightenment I think the path we are all on is toward better understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. That is what growing is.

I understand that it is hard to open up. I don't think you should open up for the sake of "showing maturity". Opening up may help more and more if you become comfortable with it and find people you trust to open up to.

I think I'd say for the most part, just being a part of this community... recognizing we have a problem or problems, choosing to work on them rather than hide them from the world (even if we keep them private to "outsiders") and coming here to share and help others is a HUGE sign on maturity.

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