I’ll say it again- You don’t have to attend every party you’re invited to. Those of you who know me, have probably heard me say this at least a half dozen times over the years. I probably remind myself of this every single day.

What does it mean? Well, I apply it to several situations in my life.

Anger.

Once upon a time, I had a lot of anger issues. If someone wanted to argue, I was down for it, especially if I felt that I was right, or at the very least that they were wrong. Arguing grows tiresome and can make you very weary though, so that’s when I first learned that I didn’t have to attend every party that I was invited to.

Drama.

Oh lord yall, I come from a family full of loud and proud southern women. These women are very opinionated and nine times our of ten, they feel that their way is the only way. I got included on an insane group message a few days ago. There were so many things I could think of that I really wanted to say, but guess what? You don’t have to attend every party you’re invited to.

Mental health…

This is the hardest one for me to admit. I’ve broken down and talked with several people about my anxiety and depression issues, but some of you don’t know the whole story.

Twice in my life I have truly wanted to end it all. I was done. The first time it was simply because I felt like I was not a strong enough mother for my children. We were going through a lot, and it nearly became too much to handle. I am so glad that I sought help.

The second time, a customer berated me and belittled me for weeks about an order and some mistakes that were made (on her end, not mine, funnily enough). After my last conversation with her, I was so shaken up that I sat on the side of the road, knowing that I had a loaded gun in my car and that I could end it all right there. Thank God a friend called me.

This customer came back this year, and I almost did business with her again, because things have been slow- but I remembered: You don’t have to attend every party that you’re invited to. My mental health is worth so much more than a small shirt order.

Actual Parties.

Sometimes, it’s okay to just be a homebody. I used to be the life of the party. Now, I prefer staying at home. I live for the days that I don’t have to leave my house. You don’t have to attend every party you’re invited to.

Until next time,
Alicia