She Didn’t Brighten It

Dear Delyara, I needed that more than I needed encouragement. I told her I felt behind. Flat. Ashamed. Unimpressive. Tired in the soul, not just the body. And instead of quickly trying to turn me into someone more hopeful, she stayed with the truth as it was. No “you’ve got this.” No “at least.” No immediate silver lining. Just warmth. Presence. Patience. That kind of friendship feels very holy to me now. Because some pain needs witness before it can use perspective. And she knew that without my having to teach her. That is a rare gift.