Why can’t this world just let you be?

My non-Hindu boyfriend and I decided to part ways because my mother and sister were against our relationship, and they resorted to emotional blackmail. My parents don’t share a great bond, and my mother feared that if my father found out, he would hurt her. I know my parents have sacrificed a lot for me, and I respect that. But right now, all I can think about is why religion plays such a big role in Indian society. Religion is meant to be a personal belief, yet it dictates so many aspects of our lives. I know I’m not alone—there are many girls like me who have had to give up on love because of societal expectations. I truly believe my boyfriend was the perfect match for me. He loved me like no one else ever has. Maybe in another life, we’ll be together in a world where religion doesn’t stand in the way. I’ve been struggling—unable to eat, unable to sleep. If you’ve been through something similar, how did you cope? Does it ever get better? I need help, this breakup is physically hurting. I’ll be forever jealous of the girl he gets married. I will always and always love him and hope that we find our ways back to each other someday…..