It took me a while to realize how manipulative, controlling, and critical you were. There were plenty of signs, looking back now. My friends and family saw through you, but I was too blind at the time. You’d tell me I was full of drama, damaged, “angry,” or “dark,” whenever I questioned anything or stood up for myself. 

Then there were the things you constantly criticized me about, like not taking my trash out soon enough, not putting my dishes in the dishwasher right away, or folding my clothes immediately. My sheets, towels, and bath mats were never soft enough or expensive enough or good enough. I didn’t shop at the right stores or buy the right things. And I drank too much.

You didn’t like most of my friends and family, and didn’t want to spend much time with them. When you did spend time with them, you complained, made fun of them, or controlled the amount of time we spent with them. We left parties or weekend trips early because you didn’t want to stay too long and if you didn’t get your way, you pouted, whined and acted like an ass. You criticized my friends and family for not being ambitious enough, not being healthy, thin, attractive, or fun enough. Everyone was beneath you and not worthy of your time or attention. 

You hated the way I kissed, made me change it, and had lots of intimacy dos and don’ts. There were always so many rules. You informed me I didn’t exercise enough, didn't control my emotions enough, didn’t dress sexy enough, and didn’t manage my finances well enough. 

It was never enough and I’d never be good enough. But then one day I realized it wasn’t me. It was YOU that wasn’t enough or good enough... for me... or my family... or my friends. We deserved better and you didn’t deserve us. So, I chose to let you go. Now you can no longer manipulate, control, and criticize me and I am finally free to be me.