Healing and starting again is definitely a journey, and let’s be honest, it’s rarely a smooth ride. When more hurtful things come our way while we're still in the middle of healing, bitterness can seem like the easiest response—like an uninvited guest showing up at the worst possible time.

But here’s what I’m learning: holding onto bitterness doesn’t protect me or make a statement about how hurt I am—it just turns me into someone I don’t recognize, and not in a good way. So, I’m trying to find healthier ways to process things, rather than letting bitterness stew and simmer. If you’re dealing with this right now, I’m genuinely sorry. I get it. But I also want to remind you that sometimes our hearts aren’t really bitter—they’re just really, really broken. And you know what? Psalm 34:18 brings so much hope: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” That’s a promise I hold onto—God is near when life’s circumstances shatter us, and when relationships shift in ways we never imagined. So, take heart. You’re not alone in your pain. You are seen, and He’s right there with you in the mess.