I’m struggling to explain something to my friend. He’s still angry at the person who hurt me, and I understand that. I’ve felt that anger for him, towards those who’ve wronged him.

But I’ve moved on. I’m not angry anymore.

I need him to understand that my experiences, even the painful ones, have shaped me. Just as his presence has. I wouldn’t change it. Holding onto anger now only poisons me. And while I appreciate his support, his continued anger, on my behalf, is starting to feel like it’s poisoning us both.

How do I get him to see this? How do I ask him to let go? I’m even starting to worry that his actions are bordering on bullying.

I don’t want him to stop caring. Having someone in my corner is invaluable. But I also don’t want us to engage in a fight that’s beneath us. This conflict isn’t worth the cost. It feels like we’re punching down.

I want him to see that we’re better than this. I want him to understand this is a battle we don’t need to fight. I want to encourage him to walk away. But I also respect his right to express himself. He’s my friend, and I’m proud of him. I’m grateful to have him in my life.

We choose our family as much as we are born into it. And more than anything, I want us to choose peace and growth, together.