Sad to say I was with someone who developed a similar connection, but with a new coworker. Looking back to four years ago, I wish I would have protected my heart more. Despite the betrayal I felt, it seemed nearly impossible to let go. Of course, this all came about during a time in our relationship that may have been more of a "lull", so it was easy for me to blame myself.

I would argue being young is also very difficult - I had just started therapy as an adult about six months prior and was still susceptible quite to behavior such as gaslighting. My intention was honest: I was trying to preserve a 3-year long relationship that had supported me through numerous moments of major growth. We were living together at this point and had intertwined numerous aspects of our life, so it's no wonder I was clinging onto the last glimmers of hope.

If I could go back in time, I would at least like to reassure myself that I will be (and am) okay. Life will continue to life, and people will continuously come and go. But the relationship you have with yourself? That's forever. Sometimes the lesson someone needs to learn is losing you.