Thank you so much for taking the time to write this. I always feel like I squandered my twenties by being toxic and a burden to those around me; I was constantly feeling sorry for myself and everyone I knew. No amount of assurances or kindness can make up for the constant inner critic that gnaws at me. And, even when I made amends to those I had hurt and they had forgiven me, I was still carrying this burden, never truly forgiving myself. But then my current therapist taught me that what I lack the most is self compassion for myself, that I was kind to everyone but myself, and I'm hoping that slowly but steadily, I can learn to develop self compassion and forgive myself for the mistakes I've made in the past.