I finally understand what Machiavelli meant when he said, “Never play fair in a game where others cheat.” It doesn’t mean become evil. It means stop being naive. Stop bringing honesty to people who study manipulation, stop giving access to people who weaponize closeness, and stop expecting clean hands from people who already showed you they’ll throw dirt. Sometimes wisdom is not revenge. Sometimes wisdom is learning the rules of the room before the room uses your goodness against you.
I don’t like people gossiping about their friends to me. Today you’re telling me everything they did wrong, tomorrow you’re posting mimosa dates and “my girl ❤️” on Instagram. Miss me with all that.