Where the truth lies... or doesn't

Some realizations are easy. A simple equation of A+B=C. Like the giant spot on your forehead is actually due to your bike helmet rubbing weirdly. Or that yes, the shirt you haven't worn since the early spring is going to fit differently during active summer months.

Other realizations are harder. A truth ignored or avoided. Or perhaps even a lie told to yourself to keep you from making a move that you really don't want to make.

Like a friend who has distanced themselves so much that you can't even be called friends... or even acquaintances. Or someone else who's core values have not only changed, but turned into those things which you oppose and avoid.

Sometimes you can see the cracks, and try to gently and diplomatically repair them. To hope that somewhere, a compromise or peace can be made.

And I am, after all, the queen of giving people second, third and even fourth chances.

But somewhere I still fear at being hasty. Sure, I can shoot my mouth off when the occasion arises, but turning my back on someone -- especially if I've known them for five, ten or even fifteen years? It's damn near impossible. I used to excel at it. Now in my dotage (hyperbole, my friends), I hold long friendships closely to my chest, knowing their worth. But when do you put your foot down?

At this point, I am "taking a break" from one friend. A time-out, so to speak. I figure a month or two will give me some perspective... and see if maybe for once, someone else will reach out and play peacemaker.

The other chum, I fear, is a lost cause. I think I simply need to make my goodbyes.

Although I am smart enough to know it's for my good -- not theirs.

Sometimes realizations suck.
I think there's something to be said for the safety of ignorance. "What you don't know can't hurt you." It's not always true... but there are times you can wish desperately for it.