They Love Me Beyond the Polished Version

Dear Delyara, I am grateful for the people who know me beyond my polished version. The ones who have seen me tired, doubtful, withdrawn, grieving, less articulate, less easy, less socially smooth — and have not withdrawn their love in response. There is a kind of friendship that only really begins after you stop trying to look impressive inside it. I think I’m finally lucky enough to know that kind now.