How do you stop constantly feeling like you have to be prepared to defend yourself and/or the people and everything that you love?

@Pimpedcheerios88 Well, what makes them any better than you? What makes them right and you wrong? Just because they say or think so?

They are better at being quick with a response to something without it being filled with anger or without it hurting someone. I can't do witty responses without taking it too far. It takes me time to sift through all the emotions and I don't give myself that time. I don't want to hurt someone so I don't speak up for myself.

@Pimpedcheerios88 Just because they’re quick witted doesn’t mean they’re right. Trust me, I can talk all kinds of shit knowing I’m doing it. Doesn’t mean it’s true or right. You’re just falling into their trap. TBH I would just either ignore them like whatever they say doesn’t affect your life (because it shouldn’t) or tell them kindly to fuck off.