Pain is not proof you did it wrong. It's proof you cared.

When something hurts, we often turn it into a verdict: I must have done this wrong. If I'd been smarter, stronger, less trusting, it wouldn't hurt like this.

But pain isn't always a sign of a mistake. Very often it's a sign of love. You hurt because it mattered. You hurt because you showed up with your whole heart, and hearts are tender things.

A branch that's been hurt can still grow. Wrap it gently. Give it time. The new leaves don't erase the wound — they grow from it.

Don't let the pain convince you to stop caring. Your care is the best thing about you.