Ben Higgins has penned a lengthy message to both his critics and fans following his highly-publicized and scrutinized split from Lauren Bushnell.

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Higgins took to Instagram on Tuesday to share his thoughts on life two weeks after publicly announcing his breakup with Bushnell, whom he proposed to on The Bachelor's Season 20 finale.

Higgins' post took the form of a caption written alongside a photo of himself with friend Ashley Iaconetti recording their new iHeart podcast Ben and Ashley: Almost Famous.

"You are going to hurt somebody, you are going to hurt somebody deeply. But, I will not be one of those people. I cannot focus on the negative comments or indecently hateful words being said about me or my relationship even though they do sting. I do know great people that I care about deeply that comments and criticisms have affected and as a result I wanted to share my words," Higgins wrote.

"A small minority of people (at least I will continue to believe it is a small minority) want to see people suffer or fail. Personally, my basis for judging myself is simple, if I do something that doesn't represent Christ then I will listen to the opinions and words from family and friends who know me best and love me. I do desire (by the direction of family and peers) to become a better person daily."

Higgins has received criticism for promoting his podcast with Iaconetti right on the heels of revealing the news of his heartbreak.

The software salesman also felt forced to publicly deny dating rumors regarding the status of his current relationship with Iaconetti, who competed on Chris Soules' edition of The Bachelor as well as two seasons of Bachelor in Paradise.

"I know some will not agree with my intentions but in all things my pursuit is to represent Christ better. With that, I will once again clearly tell you I AM NOT PERFECT as none of us are and I have never claimed to be. I do desire to show love in all situations (do I always do that? No, I fail often)," Higgins continued in his Instagram message.

"To be clear, not that this should be a surprise, but this podcast is a professional decision I have made to enhance my life and career. I still have a full time job. I am still running Generous Coffee company. I still have a blog. I am still actively involved in @humanityandhope."

Higgins called his new gig with Iaconetti an "opportunity" that allows him to spend time with "a friend and great company" as well as "talk about life" considering he loves to talk in general.

Higgins went on to admit in his post that life hasn't been easy recently, but he's apparently trying his best to remain positive.

"The last few months have not gone the way I would have preferred," said the former Bachelor.

"My relationships have changed drastically and what I envisioned my life was going to be has been redirected. It is sad, but it is nothing you should feel sorry for me about, life happens both the good and bad. With this, what do you think I should do now?"

Higgins added in his post, "For all of you that have given me advice let me give you some from my heart. Love as hard as you can (even to strangers). Ask yourself what life is about and pursue your conclusion with passion. When a good opportunity comes your way that fits your desires take it, because life is short but a lot more fun when you are doing something you enjoy."
About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski

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