He Let Me Close

What do you do when you ask him to stop doing something hurtful and he refuses to stop…

…or he says he’ll try, but then continues doing the same, without remorse.

The reason you’ve asked him to stop is because his behavior hurts you, and you can see it hurts him too.

Instead of doing his best to understand the hurt, he keeps doing it, all the while saying that continuing it is somehow necessary and helpful for him.

At the same time, he blames you for keeping your distance from him and says he feels perplexed by the fact that you don’t want to have a closer relationship with him. Saying it must be because you hate him.

Even though you told him you would keep your distance until the behavior is addressed.

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Stay with your boundary. And, continue exhibiting patience.

It’s hard to see him act this way. Especially when he can’t see the hurt he’s causing himself and you.

You can’t force or coax him into realization. He’ll get there only when the time is right for him.

Stay firm. Even in the midst of the accusations and misperceptions.

Pray.

Hand over to God the anger, frustration, hurt, and resentment.

And ask for help and guidance in return.

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This little bird let me get so close to it.

Wild animals will sometimes let you get close, and sometimes not.

It’s hard to know exactly why, but behavior, actions, and patience play a big role.

Just like with people.