Becoming Somebody You Would’ve Needed

         Sometimes it hurts knowing that there’s nobody exactly like you, especially when you need someone to be there holding and comforting you in the exact way you need without having to explain. You’ll most likely never meet someone with the same mindset, and that may be something you’re fine with. But that’s not exactly what I’m talking about. The quote many refer to as the Golden Rule, “treat people the way you want to be treated,” is more than just a phrase referencing bullying. To me, it’s more than just treating people well and spreading kindness. It also ties into helping others heal and being there for them the way some may not have been for us.

       Going through difficult times not only helps us grow stronger and become the people we strive to be, but it can also give us a chance to be the people we want to see in the world for others. Learning to give yourself the respect, love, appreciation, and care not only affects and betters your life but can heal the parts of others who are where you once were.

       I remember times when I’ve felt invisible and hurt because it felt as if nobody was willing to comfort me in the way I knew I needed, whether I explained it or not. But it got to a point where I took on my own emotions and used them in a way I knew how, and began to treat people the way I desperately wanted to. Which was mainly basic support, words of affirmation, and being seen. A simple “I’m proud of you,” text with genuine intent can change the way people view themselves.

      When we talk to people in specific ways, it’s often reciprocated back to us, which can create a space of emotional understanding and a setting of boundaries in an individual’s relationships. Learning how to become the voice you’ve once wished for is a key element and an important step to healing the parts of us that never felt seen.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better,” - Maya Angelou