I relate to this post so much.

I used to have a group of friends from high school. I thought they were my true friends. So, I trusted them.

Turns out they were using me, controlling me and manipulating me. Evidence: flying monkeys, talked behind my back and only contacted me when they needed something.

Like, I would not have suspected that they weren't true friends if it weren't for the constant belittling and put-downs.

Like, when you tell them about your dreams and achievements and they give you a comment insinuating that you won't succeed or that your achievement meant nothing. That was the type of shit that hurts.

I didn't make a scene and left them. Life is too short to be held down by others who don't want you to succeed.