The one thing that we always have is a choice in how we construct our inner world. We can allow others to define it, or we can generate our own inner peace despite the outside world.

There is a time and a place for both certainly. We cannot simply turn a blind eye and cut ourselves off and shut off our empathy, but we can always remember the way home when our hearts and minds feel pulled in various directions. The root of your heart always stays home. It is unconditional and you are always accepted there. You can feel your way back even in crisis.

The more and more we return to the heart, the more and more we carry the essence of it instead of fear into our interactions with others. Change that stems from this heart centered place is lasting.

I think you are amazingly brave and your heart is tremendous. I feel there is a home for you no matter where you land.