When I’m upset, what I really want isn’t to argue.. it’s to feel understood. I know you want the same thing… I’m starting to realize that connection doesn’t come from reacting rough… it comes from pausing and trying to connect… From creating a little space between what I feel and what I say.

I want to get better at that…. I ‘m horrible at it… I just…. mess up and get frustrated and let it control me… I want to catch myself in those moments where frustration rises and instead of lashing out or shutting down, take a breath.

Because often, what I’m showing on the outside… anger, impatience.. isn’t me. The real feelings are underneath. And if I can slow down enough to name them, maybe I can express them without blame. I want to be able to speak with love and care and respect…

I want to connect even in conflict. I want to learn how to share what I need without making her feel like she’s the problem. That’s how we grow. That’s how we build trust… I want to do this with her…