simple.

I absolutely adore my friends and family.
I am entirely too blessed for what I really deserve.

I find it my “duty” to take care of them,
within reason.
There’s a pain that goes through me when they’re hurting.
Lately, I’ve noticed how much I feel this.
Even when it’s people I hardly know.
I know that indescribable feeling of sadness,
loneliness, guilt. It’s terrible.
Although I am not them, or anything high in power,
I find tremendous joy in helping those around me.
It’s really true..
You don’t know someone’s story, 
what they’ve been through,
or even what they’re currently going through.
You see the outside, that’s it.
A smile or a ‘thank you’ can go miles.
It does for me.

Slow down.
Take the extra five minutes (or maybe 30 seconds)
to lift someone other than yourself up.
If they’re hurting, tell them you’re thinking of them.
Remind them that they’re not alone..
& this, too, shall pass. 
 
You never know when you’ll be down,
and a simple acknowledgement of existence 
will be your saving grace.  

I love you.
xx,lj