During my journey navigating the transformative waves of grief, I have come to understand there to be a profound disconnect between the expectations of others and the evolution of my own identity. Individuals often assume a return to my pre-grief self; however, the reality is that this transformative journey has fundamentally altered my being.

Many have no sense of the solitary paths you have traveled alone and the depths of personal growth that have been required to bring you to the place where you currently stand. These new territories and boundaries are of divine design, and they are meant to protect and preserve the progress that you have made personally while on this journey. Setting clear and decisive boundaries around your fire will protect it and keep it burning; it’s OK for people to warm and be transformed by your light, but it’s not OK for them to take your peace and leave you in the darkness.

As part of this transformation, God has allowed me to outline new boundaries, and as He has granted me the wisdom to do so, new territories have been established in my life. These boundaries, which are critical for maintaining my health and well-being, have been developed through a process of introspection and divine guidance. They serve as protective measures to shield me from relationships and influences that could impede my progress, well-being, and self-growth.