Unfortunately, the truth is you cannot change the people around you. People, just like you and me, are selfish, lazy, judgmental, you name it. One way or another, they will disappoint you. That’s where you have to make a choice of whether you love them enough to work it out with them or have the wisdom to let them go. If you leave your self-worth in the hands of others, you will be deeply hurt.

I believe the true journey to happiness comes from self-love. Loving yourself includes being physically healthy, having a community that shares a common interest, and perhaps picking up a hobby that makes you happy. These are only a few ways to become that “happy, content, fulfilled person” you dream of. You, my friend, are very worthy of love, no matter what your past is. Every person has a story; a story you learn and grow from.

I’m sorry to hear that you were involved with the wrong people and hurt so much. Trusting people again will be extremely difficult, trust me, I know. Take one day at a time, and try to love yourself first. It might help to go out and spend time with people you know that love you, like a family member perhaps. When you are ready to open your heart to others, do it slowly, but do it kindly.

I hope this quote can be of some comfort to you:

“…Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small does not serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine, as children do.
We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”