Dear Me,

Every day, I see you. I see you struggle trying to accomplish daily tasks. I see you hold back tears and smile to keep your hopes up. I see you wanting to reach out to those who are now acquaintances but meant more at a point in your life. I see you look at your friend’s number on your phone thinking if you called them now, would they welcome your call? Would they still call you their friend? I see you exist, survive. And yet, when I look at the sea of people you surround yourself with, I feel invisible.

Every day, I know you sleep with a resolve that tomorrow will be better than today. I know small things terrify you; they didn’t used to. I know you are spending time building your walls higher than before. I know you feel the need to protect yourself but remember, you were successful once in breaking down those walls. Remember that you welcomed amazing people and memories when you were willing to share a part of yourself. I know the future scares you but remember, you used to decide where your future was taking you. I know you are strong, confident and fearless. And yet, when I see you these days, I hardly know you anymore.

Every day, you juggle work, life, friends, and family. You get up every time you get knocked down. You feel lost but you find a way to come back to your life. You feel like you let your life pass by but you seize the moments you can to cherish. You treat others with kindness and compassion. And yet, when you face a setback, I judge you.

I know you need help and yet, I feel helpless. There is little motivation to go on but I know one thing that will help you. Go back to the people who you think used to know you. Your life, as much as you want, doesn’t resemble that of the Elon Musks and the Jeff Bezos of the world. Your life was, is, enriched by the people around you. These so-called ordinary people are taking their lives one day at a time, as are you. You will find wisdom and strength in how they lead their everyday lives and you can use it to empower yours.

Feed your soul. Feed it with food and travel. Good food and good people will open your horizons and empower you with tools you need to not only survive but to live. Empowerment comes from happiness. Its not going to be easy but these stories will help you love more and live more. Remember to do what makes you happy.

I love you.