YOU ARE NOT ALONE

We live in a world where every individual experiences pain and suffering; a world where humans fight silent battles, requiring kindness in the midst of cruelty and disaster. In these times, those that are hurting are in desperate need of receiving help. But they are not able to simply admit this due to the societal standard of remaining strong and positive, even amid melancholy. They feel that it would be burdensome to express their thoughts and the necessity of help to another, so they proceed with life with all they have left within themselves to avoid the shame of being depicted as a disappointment.

It is unfortunate that because of the shame that is associated with the confession of valid feelings, many individuals are unaware of those who continue to hurt in silence. They continue to endure aching experiences and isolate themselves from others when they should be receiving the love and support that they deserve. In the end, we are faced with the heartbreaking consequence of the loss of innocent lives; people that had only wished to be seen, heard, and appreciated in the time that they were still alive.

It is difficult to continue living in a world that exasperates emotional distress. It is burdensome to plaster a smile on our faces from the outside, when it does not complement with what is being felt on the inside. It is a shame that societal expectations bring us to believe that our feelings do not qualify to be deemed as a high level of importance and can be simply pushed aside because our lives have additional priorities that need attending to before ourselves.

Even when societal expectations beg you to remain strong in every situation, I hope you know that it is never selfish to reach out for a helping hand in these times. One meaningful conversation can change a life, for the better. To gain the ability of expressing your feelings through communication with another person is courageous itself. It will allow you to reveal your vulnerability, and to embrace your fully authentic self. I hope you know that you should be proud of yourself for taking this step. It is a difficult choice to make, however there is no shame in the disclosure of the emotions that are being felt inside of your heart, because it is the right step in being seen and for your voice to be heard for the first time.

I hope you know that your feelings are valid. You are loved, worthy, and important, even in times where you do not believe so. Most importantly, you are not alone. In times of despair, know that there are people in your life who love and care for you. Even if someone is unable to understand exactly how you feel, they will still be able to offer you the support that you deserve, which will stem from a place of love for you to become better. You will never be a burden in this world because you make it better simply with your existence. You bring value into other people’s lives, and you may even be the reason why some chose to continue living, despite all the hardship that they face in this world—and that means everything.

Your life is precious, and it is the most valuable entity before anything else tries to compare in this world. I hope you learn to take care of yourself, and to be kinder to yourself amid adversity. It is okay if this means to simply breathe. To take the time to process what is occurring within yourself. To find serenity, even in the little moments, to bring peace in your heart again.

There is hope in change. To eventually achieve what is necessary for you to heal and understand yourself a little better than before. To find love in the experiences within the next chapter of your life, which you never could have imagined having beforehand. To meet people that will only help you replenish your heart and soul as you continue to live each day.

You have come a long way, and no situation or circumstance will ever derail the growth that you have already endured. In times that you need a lift, there will be someone out there to provide it for you—so that you will slowly, but surely, find the way back home to yourself again.