You are unlike many people, Eloise.

When I think of the love I received as a child, I realize that it was not unconditional. I think of all of the ways that love has expanded into my life through friends and romantic partners alike, and I need to pause. It’s funny how you don’t realize what you’ve missed out on when love is at your doorstep in abundance and you’re lucky enough to see it and embrace it. Love is a two way street where you make time for all of the care you can give and take and hold close to you for as long as it’s there because everything is so fleeting and you just know how important it is to be there and to treasure the person or people with you. To be there willingly and to say ‘I am grateful for our time together, no matter what we are doing. I am here with you and you are here with me’ and how much of that is a miracle in it of itself. It is simply astounding that time and space has made room for us to meet and connect and love and pass each other in this world in whatever shape that takes form. Some people may never see this love or get to feel the appreciation for how precious our time together is; and that’s okay too, but wow am I grateful that I get to consciously choose to love you and be with you and enjoy you just as you are and how I get to receive that too.