Every year around my birthday I hear from an old friend whose modus operandi is totally passive aggressive. Every year, she texts me a birthday message which is always filled with passive aggressive language, letting me know how hurt she feels because we no longer connect, except for her passive aggressive birthday wish, every year. And, every year I come to the same conclusion. Whether it is me using passive aggressive behavior another person using it on me, there is no winning being passive-aggressive or dealing with other people being passive-aggressive. Behind passive-aggression lies a valley filled to the brim with anger and hostility. My friend of course likes to play the “good guy”, always making me the bad guy for our failed friendship. And, when the valley can no longer support all the pent-up negativity, it will come out in a furious outburst that can leave the people around you dazed and confused. So, this year, instead of filling myself up with remorse, I plan to set my intentions to beware of and to stop being passive aggressive. Today, the Universe wants you and I to feel our feelings and know we deserve to express them in healthy, assertive ways. Today, choose to be direct rather than indirect. Choose to express your needs, wants, and feelings clearly so that others know how to meet your needs. Today, consciously set your intentions to stop using passive aggression to get what you want. You may lose some friends by finally being direct and speaking your truth because people have gotten used to the people-pleasing you. However, it will be worth it. If you’re engaging in passive-aggressive behavior, it’s time to have the courage to confront yourself, because what lies on the other side is infinite possibility. Today, don’t let the fear of people's thoughts and opinions stop you from speaking your mind. Speak up today, you deserve to be heard!

Just for today, I have the power to speak my truth. I have the courage to ask for what I want. I am worthy of all that is good. And so it is.