My husband planned a “surprise” birthday party that turned out to be more about his social media content than me. He told me early, made me prepare everything myself, and didn’t invite my family or closest friends. Instead, he filmed the night for his personal brand and asked me to “act surprised.” Standing in a room I decorated alone, surrounded by people I barely knew, I realized I was invisible in my own marriage.
That moment exposed years of emotional neglect, performative love, and being treated like a prop instead of a partner. I took a solo weekend away, found clarity, and ultimately chose to leave a toxic relationship that centered ego over empathy.
Starting over wasn’t easy, but it was healing. I rebuilt my life, reconnected with loved ones, and rediscovered my self-worth. Losing that marriage helped me find myself.
Sometimes rock bottom is a wake-up call. You deserve to be seen—not recorded.
