Sometimes it comes down to toxic FOR ME, or even FOR ME RIGHT AT THIS MOMENT.

I suspect that though I am generally a very good person, for some individuals based on how our relationship evolved, I become toxic to them. Not intentionally, but a function of the moment and our particular ‘chemistry.’

Perhaps ‘toxic’ shouldn’t be a value judgement or a label we throw on someone who isn’t good for us, per se. Rather, recognize relationships are two way. For example, carbon and oxygen are both great alone. But carbon monoxide is deadly. Abusers or people who poison everything and everyone, or those with significant power over one or more people — now that changes things. But in a relationship where both parties have equal power (relatively) I think it’s worth noting that toxicity is about our combination and not necessarily the responsibility of one person alone.

Great article! Thanks for letting me opine.