Just a few things..

Turning 25 brought with it a couple of things--the realization that you really can no longer go back; the realization that you can do so much more; the realization that you can still be who you want to be.

You also realize that you no longer need to try to ask for people's affection or attention; that you don't need to try to become what they want you to be; that you can be yourself--even though there are complications, even though there are consequences.

You don't need people in your life who'd only make you feel bad about yourself. You don't need their approval. At the end of the day, it's your life, not theirs.