At first, guilt stung. Then came relief. Real, deep relief. No rushing, no cleanup, no performance. Just quiet. A simple meal. Stillness. Peace.
I realized something crucial: traditions only matter when built on mutual care. When one person sacrifices themselves year after year, it’s not tradition—it’s imbalance disguised as generosity. Boundaries aren’t selfish. They’re honesty.
This Christmas, I stopped for myself—and in that stopping, I found freedom.
🎄 If this story resonates, share it with someone who needs permission to set their own boundaries this holiday season.