What a beautiful thing it is to be loved. And I don’t mean in a romantic way, but in the way we cherish phone calls from across an ocean. In the way we tuck cold legs under wrinkled sheets. In the way light shines through white curtains early Sunday morning. It’s the love that descends upon us like pink hues of sunset—despite heaviness of heart. There are many ways to love, and likewise, to be loved.
You may love one parent for having tried their best and another for their unwavering support. Maybe there is love for the consistency of an older sibling and how no matter what changes for them, they never have to change for you. There will be love for friends following dreams across the world, and though you can’t talk much, you will wish to send them words of encouragement. (If they read this, they’ll know who they are.)
Finally, there is love for self—a return home of sorts; some green tea, a walk in the park, text messages from mom and a reminder that you too are following your dreams. This kind of love will stop you in your tracks. It is the most difficult love to keep, but the easiest to know. And it’s worth every effort to maintain.
You may not appreciate this love until you sit alone at a local coffee shop, 3000+ miles away from the city you miss. But when you do, it will become clear; you must always put your own love first. You must cherish yourself the way you want others to. Set the right example and you won’t fall for false pretenses. You will have the strength to know the love you deserve because you will be giving it to yourself each morning and every night.
all the love,
shae xx
sunflower soulfood 