@pennywhl, freedom is experienced when you value what God values and love what God loves...and that is YOU! You are loved and valued by the One who created the unique and special person that you are. People who are not living in the freedom of knowing this are not able to appreciate others and value others for the unique way they are made. Begin to love and value yourself, and look for how others might be acting out of a place of self-loathing and fear. And do step away from the toxic people for a time to refocus on who you are, and what you are doing. You can't change a person. You can only change yourself, and inspire others to change. Don't give up! Write because you are dearly loved, and specially made, and you have valuable things to say! I've upvoted this post, and am following you because I am interested in reading your future works.