The Grace I Give

Journal Reflection: “The Grace I Give”

I give grace because I know what it feels like to be overwhelmed, to carry more than I can explain, to be in a space where words won’t come but feelings won’t rest. I’ve made room for people to process, to stumble, to be unsure—because I don’t love conditionally. I don’t only show up when things are easy. I’ve held space for silence, confusion, and even avoidance… because that’s who I am.

But grace is not the absence of boundaries.

It’s not a permission slip for others to disregard my heart.

And it is not weakness.

The grace I give is strong. It’s soft, but it stands tall.

It says: “I see your humanity—but I won’t erase my own to protect it.”

I deserve the same grace I offer.

I deserve to be considered. To be responded to. To be chosen with intention.

I deserve people who communicate, not just consume. Who care, not just watch.

If you cannot meet me where I stand—loving, open, and clear—I will not shrink.

I will not chase.

I will not wait in limbo for someone to decide I’m worthy of what I already am.

The grace I give is not a test.

It’s an extension of my spirit.

And from this day forward, I will give it to myself first.

~Kae Jaye~