I have never been the type to bite my tongue. People always advise me to “choose my battles.” And while I agree that some instances are not worth fighting over, I’m not so sure it’s best to keep your mouth shut when you’re internally griping in anger or sadness.
Hear me out. Why sit back and allow a situation to overwhelm you with grief when you can confront it and potentially sort it out? If another person is defensive over your reactions and feelings and is not at all sympathetic, he or she isn’t meant to be in your life. You shouldn’t have to hide your emotions to make another person happy. It’ll only lead you down a one-way street to nowhere. You won’t grow. Your relationship or friendship won’t grow. You’ll always harbor resentment and pain.
Maybe I’m immature for not swallowing my pride. Maybe I’m selfish. But if I were to hurt or anger someone, I would want to know, no matter how often it happened or how many fights it started. Because without communication, there is no point.
Of course, there are moments when it may be best to keep quiet; perhaps it is not your place to state your opinion, or maybe the situation isn’t a huge deal. But even so, if an issue bothers you, then it is a big deal–to you, at least. And that’s enough for you to speak. I’m not saying you need to attack anyone or retaliate with hateful words; I’m saying you should express your feelings, no matter how “irrational” they may seem.
Don’t live your life as a mute, avoiding conflict just to keep someone close to you. You have every right to tell a person that he or she is hurting you. Don’t be afraid to overreact. Often, we do so because of previous occurrences. Don’t try to live up to ridiculous standards by zipping your lips and dealing with emotional turmoil.
I wear my heart on my sleeve, and I can’t say I’m always proud of that. I often feel crazy for simply standing up for myself and demanding respect. But you shouldn’t feel insane for speaking out, even if you come off as over-dramatic. People who know you will understand; anyone else does not matter.
We can all be dramatic at times. This is a result of caring–of loving. You shouldn’t have to justify your feelings. Don’t turn into an emotionless clone just to please someone.
Previously posted on fortheloveofsammi.wordpress.com.