It takes courage to open up one’s heart.

For a while, I have been selective where I work and interact about to whom I have shared the part of my story where my first marriage ended. People sometimes react oddly to such disclosures. And not everyone needs to know.

A common response that I have gotten over the years are reactions–from usually well-meaning people–about how they can tell that I am still hurting.

I don’t like that sort of response.

It feels dismissive to me. While I don’t doubt the person sharing it has good intentions, that does not change the impact of such words.

The content of what was shared gets written off as something a hurt person would say–as if they are not in their right mind.

We do not control how people react. What we control is whether or not we share.

We can can only control ourselves. This is probably one of the hardest lessons of life.

Regardless, it takes courage to share your tender story to someone. So, do not allow their response set your estimation of value. You are gold and have offered them a precious glimpse into your heart.