The soul that is attached to anything however much good there may be in it, will not arrive at the liberty of divine union. For whether it be a strong wire rope or a slender and delicate thread that holds the bird, it matters not, if it really holds it fast; for, until the cord be broken, the bird cannot fly. – St John of the Cross

Here recently, I have had the desire to go sky diving. Maybe it’s because for once in my life I want to do something daring. I want to step out of the parameters I have enclosed myself in. But out of fear, I have not made the jump just yet. What if the parachute doesn’t open? What if this? What if that? Those thoughts end up killing the desire.

I relate this to toxic relationships. There are several that I have wanted to “cut the cord” with for some time, but out of fear I don’t. My realm of reasoning for such behavior consisted of: I’m supposed to love and forgive those that hurt me and give them a second chance. I believe there is good in them and that they can change.

You see, I have a “fear” of letting go.

But as I’m learning the hard way, I don’t have to keep hanging on to toxic relationships. I don’t have to hang around for insults and attacks on my character. I deserve better. I deserve friends that are going to support me, lift me up, encourage me, and not knock me down.  It’s true I have to forgive them, but I don’t have to keep trusting them and leaving the door open for further attacks.

Whether you find yourself dealing with toxic relationships or abusive (verbal, physical) ones for that matter, you can let go. You deserve better. You can cut the cord and free yourself of harm. I know it might be scary, but I assure you once you do, you will find that God’s grace swoops in like the parachute and carries you safely to the ground.

Photo credit: http://www.skydivepennridge.com