As I exited Walgreens, I found myself engrossed in texting with my man. Lost in conversation, I glanced up from my phone and noticed someone waving and smiling at me. To my surprise, it was my horrible ex from 12 years ago.

I couldn’t help but wonder if he had spotted my car and deliberately pulled into Walgreens. Despite his audacity to smile at me, this time, I didn’t tremble with discomfort. It was the first time I felt a sense of calm, realizing that he no longer had a hold on me.

I pondered if he expected me to exchange pleasantries and catch up on the last 12 years. What did he think would happen? Truth be told, I didn’t even care whether he entered the store. I merely backed out of the parking spot and continued on my way.

Flashback to January when I received an email from the woman he cheated on me with. In her message, she apologized for pursuing him selfishly. That moment felt like karma had come full circle. Surprisingly, I didn’t feel sadness for her. Instead, I thanked God for granting me a bit of satisfaction.

Her email read as follows:

Hi (Me). Sadly I’m pretty sure you remember who I am. I just wanted to so very sincerely apologize for my part in hurting you so many years ago. I was selfish and didn’t care who I hurt to get what I wanted, which at the time was (my ex) . Lots of therapy and self reflection over the last 8 months has taught me a lot about who I was then and who I am now. I am so disappointed in myself that I allowed another woman to be treated so badly and that I played a part in that hurt. Again, I am so very sorry and I pray that you have found the true happiness that you deserve. I’m sure your relationship with (my ex) ended without closure so if you have any questions that I can answer that you think might bring that for you, I would be happy to answer anything I can.