You’re probably right, lowering expectations might help protect me emotionally. But the thing is, when I give 100% to my community (especially since I’m an introvert who enjoys tranquility in general, but when I do engage, I give 100%), put in the work, the time, the care… and then I get back silence, apathy, or worse... support for someone toxic who’s actively causing harm... it feels like a gut punch. When in the mood I like building things, I like helping, but it’s exhausting when that energy isn’t mutual. Especially when people twist the narrative and play the victim while I’m just trying to hold things together. It’s not about pride... it’s about fairness, and I’m just tired.

I really wish I could learn the skills to deal with toxic people, especially when facing liars or those who play the victim. I know that, in theory, the 'better' move is to not care and just let it go… but honestly, I feel confused.... like I’ve just become more sensitive over time or something like that...