Pandora's Box
Thursday, September 12, 2013
I wasn't prepared to run into him last night, but I did. While he doesn't (and never did) define who I am, our relationship was a learning experience.
There I was, looking for low-fat Stella Dora breakfast cookies on a random Wednesday night. I had just gotten out of work and decided to get a few items on the way home. One of the great benefits of working second shift is shopping when others are sleeping.
It was the second time I saw him there at that hour. I was mad. 'This is my turf,' I thought.
But there he was.
My entire body felt red, and I actually pictured myself throwing a bag of Double Stuff Oreos at him. But I didn't. The truth is I'm happier than I've ever been in my entire life. Things really are going well for me. I have a job that pays well, am financially rewarded for freelance writing, and have plenty of friends and family to support me on my journey towards a healthier lifestyle. 'So why do I feel red?' I thought.
Because it was a flashback.
We never truly forget those who have hurt us. They're like scars that heal over time, but they never completely disappear.
I turned my cart around. He didn't see me, and no cookies were harmed.
My entire body was shaking with anger as I drove home, though. Relationships that end badly are like a Pandora's box. You slowly learn to store the key away where you can't find it, but every once in a while someone opens it up for you. I took it as a reminder to focus on all of the good in my life.
I never did get my cookies