Stepping Back or Breaking Out?

In the past couple of weeks, the headlines, internet, and news reports have weighed in on Prince Harry’s and Meghan Markle’s, the Duchess of Sussex, decision to step back from being “senior royals” and to work to become financially independent. Many have painted Meghan in a villainous light, saying that she knew what she was getting into, knew what being a part of the Royal family meant before she married Prince Harry. To add on to that, some reports say that the Royal Family was outraged by the decision and felt betrayed. Yet, they are the ones who remained silent while Meghan was being abused by the vicious, British Media - making them complicit in the abuse. They allowed Meghan to be “othered” in a place where she was not protected or valued. And even now, the palace seems to prefer, letting the royal couple go, and not be bothered, instead of standing up for them in the press and answering for and righting their wrongs. It comes off as if they just want to forget her pain and hurt and move on, returning to living their royal lives. If that is the case, I see the Sussexes as not “stepping back”, but breaking out. It’s courageous to make efforts to change a toxic space and venture to find a more protected or sustainable place to be happy. But there are consequences. You become the villain while others live as the heroes. However, the important thing about breaking out is knowing your worth. No, the real Monarchy, nor the monarchy (the people who have been complicit in your pain) will not collapse, but they will lose everything that you had to offer. No, some battles are not worth fighting, especially when your antagonist isn’t worth your time or energy. But when your well being is at stake, step back or break out of the situation no matter what the cost because in the end, you will be whole and healed.