Life is so hard!!! But you know what? My friend walked me home when I had a migraine even though it meant missing part of a party. My partner brought containers of soup across town to give to our friends. My classmate took the time to email me when I missed class to ask how I was doing. No one judged me during my presentation for stumbling over my words. My coworker told me to take off early because it’s a beautiful day. A stranger in line for the bakery was the first person to celebrate with me when I submitted an important application. The barista at the cafe where I study remembers me and always asks how I’m doing or where I’ve been if I haven’t come around.
These kinds of interactions used to feel mythical to me, like something that only happened to especially lovely and deserving people. But the truth is we are all equally deserving of love. It wasn’t because of who I am that I wasn’t receiving this kindness, it was because of where I was planted. I had to change my circumstances, and I had to be brave enough to place myself in the position to receive this kindness. If we are willing to take the risk of being honest that we need and want love— we have created a path for those who want to offer it.