Circumstances force one to protect ourselves first, realization that change happens over years.
Not a heart of steel, a way to safeguard enabling us to feel again another day, when we are ready to face to next step in the journey.
Yes, you're right, it's a way of protecting yourself from new irritations.
I'm used to watching myself and my growth. And at this time, the people I know are also changing, everyone's changes are different and this distances us from each other.
Thank you for your interest ☺️
Definitely need to protect ourselves to keep sane, so much happening all the time, we do lose connection with some we knew for years. Take care and look after yourself.