When you realise those closest to you don’t even know you

I’m sure we have all realised that we all perceive what we see, hear, and read in different ways. But have you ever given consideration to how others perceive you?

In recent weeks, certain events, particularly within my family circle, have given me reason to ponder this question. I’ve always had a strong belief in the person I am.  I’m well aware of my good qualities and not so good qualities.  Sometimes that belief has been shaken and I’ve felt hopeless but never worthless.

However, I’ve been given cause to realise that many of those who I love and care about don’t really know me at all!

Of course, I understand that my sons will only ever see me as their mum, but it’s become evident that someone who I have spent over 60 years with in a loving, caring and supportive relationship doesn’t know me at all!

She is my sister, and yet she doesn’t understand the first thing about me as a person! I can’t believe how incredibly sad and hurt it has made me feel.

So I’ve been pondering the question “How do others perceive me?”

Perhaps I shouldn’t care about it but surprisingly, I find that I do.

Has anyone else been in a situation like this?