I don't look for validation - from anyone.

I'm not perfect and I make mistakes - and I own them. I'm willing to apologize. I'm willing to admit I'm wrong. I understand that it doesn't make me in any way less worthy as a person.

I don't need validation from the outside world - but each pat on the back does catch me offguard as to the relief it generates, the breath it allows me to catch, in just half a second.