Breakdown:

1. Setting the Standard for True Change: When someone causes real harm, a mere apology or the passage of time isn’t sufficient to heal the wound. True healing requires significant inner and outer work from the person who caused the harm. Without this, the risk of being hurt in the same way remains high.
2. The Importance of Protecting Yourself: Your heart, mind, and energy are valuable and worth protecting. If the person who caused the harm hasn’t done the necessary work to change their mindset, habits, or behavior, they are still prone to repeating the same mistakes.
3. Superficial Change Isn’t Enough: Time and surface-level conversations might alter their presentation, but if the core issues remain unresolved, nothing has really changed. Granting the same access to your life without evidence of growth is a significant risk.
4. Navigating the Situation: For those who struggle with understanding how to protect themselves while communicating their boundaries, this approach is suggested: Be clear and direct. Let them know that while you appreciate their apology, the changes you need to feel safe and secure are not yet present. Prioritize your well-being and communicate that you need to do what’s best for you.
5. Conclusion: This message emphasizes the importance of genuine transformation over superficial apologies. It’s about recognizing your worth and setting clear boundaries, ensuring that you protect yourself from repeated harm.