All those years, while I was so busy putting out fires caused by others’ choices, all I wanted was for them to be responsible for themselves. I wanted them to care enough about themselves to make better choices for themselves. But I was the pot calling the kettle black.

Where was their example of setting healthy boundaries? Certainly not in me.

I know it feels like you’re being harsh and uncaring to stand by and watch someone you love suffer the consequences of their actions. It hurts to say, “No,” knowing it causes someone you love pain.

But when you set a boundary and let go of the outcome, in addition to taking care of yourself, you’re modeling healthy boundaries for others, as well. This is an excellent opportunity for you to be the change you want to see in your world.