Most of you don't know me, but I actually arrived at Susan's in about 2004. A few years later my account was deactivated due to inactivity, & when I came back a few years ago, it was without a working computer, so I haven't posted much. But I love what Susan is doing here, and I keep coming back. The following is something I wrote in various forms elsewhere on the web. I thought I'd post it for those of you who need a reminder. Forgive the typos--I'm posting from my 'droid. ~Valerie
My good people (this means you).
As you wander the halls of Susan's, remember: Few of us will get the chance to meet each other in real life. But this little place on the interweb is a community. And, as loosely or strictly as you care to interpret it, we're kinda' family. We turn off the computer and go to our 'real' lives--those other names on the screen do the same. And then what? We share details of our lives quite openly here, but we can never really know what's happening in someone's life--the sum total of their histories combined with thousands of interactions, thoughts & nuances that affect them every moment of their lives. An interaction on this here forum has the potential to make or break someone's day. I think we do a damn good job of making each other's lives a bit better--I see so much encouragement on these forums and I'm proud to be here with you all.
Please remember, everyone is vulnerable. Everyone. Regardless of what others choose to show the world, there is a part of them that is capable of being deeply wounded.
This fragile tendril of existence that we're lucky enough to experience won't even see the full dawn before our species becomes extinct. So reach out to people when you need an encouraging word. Reach out to others who could use an ear or a shoulder. We can't all be there for *everyone*, but we can all be there for *someone*. We can't take care of each other, but we can watch out *for* each other. You will not have a heart for everyone; I sure don't. But when you have a heart for someone, show it! As much as you can do so without compromising your safety or that of others, err on the side of kindness. Don't ever wonder if you should! More kindness can only make our lot better in life. And don't let anyone fade away...
And another thing: no matter who you are, someone on this grand planet loves you and thinks you're beautiful. There are probably people out there caring about you whose existence you barely acknowledge. Think about that when you're lonely or discouraged. Intentional or not, you make a difference in this world, and if that message doesn't come across in your everyday life, come here and let us remind you until you believe in yourself again.
If there ever was a gospel that needs to be spread, it is this: Your existence on this planet matters. You are beautiful, and you are loved.
xo,
~Valerie :icon_flower:
That made me smile, thank you! :)
Thank you.
It is a point a frequently have trouble getting through my head.