Sometimes I know that I am not the easiest friend to have. I suppose we all have those moments where we ask ourselves, how the hell do these people put up with me? I am a worrier,so this thought arises when I am in desperate need of a listening ear. Which is often. I get nervous, I overthink, I stress, and eventually I need someone to talk to. So thank you to any one that has ever sat at the opposite end of the couch, or across the table from me, or squeezed my hand as we shared a cup of tea. You keep my world bright and spinning. You offer reassurance when you know that I need it, and are willing to repeat yourself. Many times over.
Having a nervous brain isn’t bad or something to be ashamed of, and that’s taken me a long time to learn. It’s kind of like having green eyes, or being tall. It’s just a trait -- it doesn’t define me but it’s there. Finding friends who not only accept this (sometimes annoying) trait, but working with me on it isn’t always easy. There have been boys and friends that walked the other way when I said what was on my mind, and looked to them for guidance. And there have been people who’ve held my hand through every battle I’ve faced.
The trick is taking this moment to say thank you to the latter, and not focusing on the ones who’ve left. I know that my problems are miniscule in comparison to well… literally everything else. People are abused, hungry, sick, and discriminated against. Lives are lived everyday that are far more difficult than my very privileged one. What my listening friends do, is make sure I know that my feelings are valid, and that though my problems are small- I have a right feel how I feel.
Thank you for empowering me.
This “thank you” is (hopefully) applicable to more people than just myself. Whatever trait you struggle with, I’m sure you have people who love you regardless of it. And it’s hard to find a time to say…Thank you!!! Thank you for being a light in my life and a joy to my soul. Let the people who’ve been glued to your side despite your downfalls know that you appreciate them. I know that I don’t do that nearly enough.
The sheer number of listening ears, wise words, and warm hugs that I have available to me in this world is more than I deserve. And I am grateful. Thank you to my guideposts who are also my friends.
