Are we merely self-preserving, or are we scared, and are these two mutually inclusive?
What are we doing when we engage in self-preservation? Self-preservation is a survival/coping mechanism, first of all. Naturally, we want to protect ourselves from pain or harm, be it physical or emotional or mental but from my own experience, emotional pain can sometimes mar us in ways undescribable.We want to simmer down expectations especially ones involving others – to avoid the shame that accompanies disappointment. So we avoid, hide, run – whatever act that protects. Who can blame us?

Is it selfishness, or is it self- care? I do know very well that it’s not selfishness. Our experiences can impact our lives in interesting ways. They add up to what we become. Are we sometimes just scared and scarred people acting out of fear, or are we acting in honour of our best interests ?

I’m not here with answers. I do not know everything, and often, I struggle with some overwhelming and overpowering emotions. I simply want to learn what you know and how you deal.