@dreathegemini You chose not to let your past define you but refine you, molding those faculties that have thrust you into the woman that you are today. Pain is often the currency of progress. Sometimes you have to "go thru to get to" but ultimately well worth it. Thanks for the transparency.
“Unrequited love does not die; it’s only beaten down to a secret place where it hides, curled and wounded. For some unfortunates, it turns bitter and mean, and those who come after pay the price for the hurt done by the one who came before.” ― Ellie Newmark