As it turns out, I am not alone.

For far too long, I truly believed that I was too much for those around me. I thought that because I had unique needs, people were actively choosing to run away from me and avoid me at all costs. My belief that rejection was my permanent companion and constant friend had controlled and ruled every aspect of my life. I avoided people, I avoided events, I avoided life, all because it seemed easier than pursuing relationships that could end in rejection for me. And to be fair, I have valid reasons to believe people did not want me in their lives.

• My father escaped to California to avoid me.
• My best friend disappeared from my life for three years (while engaging with others).
• My siblings stepped away and haven’t spoken to me in years.

With each fallen relationship, I felt more and more like a failure, choosing to isolate myself more to avoid more hurt and pain. Logically, it made sense to me. If I were alone, no one could hurt me anymore. If I were alone, the actions of others wouldn’t make me feel alone.

This month, God took me back down Rejection Road to help me address my feelings of rejection. He opened doors for me and presented many opportunities to see the true beauty of those around me and to realize that I am loved in ways I cannot even imagine. Instead of holding onto the pain of rejection, I am embracing the joy of love.

Today, on the last Monday of June, I want to take a moment to honor a few of those who helped me feel loved this month. Whether they prayed for/with me, came to help me in my hour of need, or extended grace for my shortcomings, these are the people who allowed me to realize that I am not alone and I am not alone.

Sorry, ADHD and RSD, you did not win; God gets the victory.