It’s Not You, It’s The Mask…

Ever dealt with someone who could win an Oscar for Best Performance in a Role They Wrote for Themselves? The kind of person who can charm a room, bless themselves at mass and cause chaos behind the scenes – all before lunchtime? Yeah. Me too.

And here’s what I’ve learned, for anyone else navigating the madness: it’s not about you. It never was.

Narcissists, image-obsessives and professional martyrs of the community stage aren’t reacting to who you are but to how you fit into their script. You could bend yourself into a pretzel trying to please them, explain yourself or meet them halfway but spoiler alert: they’ll move the halfway line.

So here’s your permission slip to let go of their opinion.
Their drama is not your burden.
Their gaslighting isn’t your reflection.
Their approval isn’t your oxygen.

You don’t have to match their mask with one of your own.
You get to live in honesty, even if it’s messy.
You get to laugh, knowing some performances aren’t worth watching.

And trust me those masks always slip eventually. When they do, you’ll be standing there with peace in your pocket, dignity intact and maybe a cup of tea in hand for good measure.

Hang in there. You’re not alone and you’re not crazy.

Stay kind. Stay steady. Stay you…
Your peace is precious and no mask-wearer should steal it.

Let them polish their halo if they must. You’ve got better things to do. Like living honestly, loving deeply and laughing often. Because the truth always finds its way through and good hearts recognize good hearts in the end.

Keep shining, no matter the shadows around you.

Protect your peace like it’s your favorite cup of tea or coffee don’t let just anyone stir it.

Not everyone deserves a front-row seat to your life. Some people come with noise, drama and a suitcase full of issues you didn’t pack for. And that’s okay – you don’t have to carry what isn’t yours.

You’re allowed to set boundaries.
You’re allowed to choose peace over people-pleasing.
And you’re allowed to outgrow the performances around you.

Kind hearts shine brighter when they’re not weighed down by someone else’s storm.

So today – breathe deep, smile often and remember: you’re doing better than you think.

Lesson of the Day: Some people wear masks so well, they forget who they are underneath. But that’s not your burden to carry.When someone cares more about appearances than honesty, it’s easy to get caught in their performance. Remember this: their actions reflect them, not you. You are not responsible for their insecurities, their drama or their need to be seen a certain way.