If I were my friend, I’d tell me I’m ok as I am. I’d say I might not be perfect – and I don’t need to be. As long as I try to be what I can be, I’m ok.
If I were my friend, I’d say I’m forgiven. I’d tell me I’ve always done what I knew, what I could at that moment. And that is it.
If I were my friend, I’d tell me it’s ok to make mistakes. And I’m not a bad person because of them. I’m not less. I’m not stupid. I did what I did. I’ve learned what I have, and it’s time to go on. Even if I make more mistakes, I’ll still be lovable.
If I were my friend, I’d tell me I, as everyone else, deserve love. Even more, I’d tell me I’m loved. And if I crave yet more love, that’s ok too. Because that’s me.
If I were my friend, I’d tell me I’m not a failure. I’m not damaged goods. I’m not nobody. I’m not trash. I’m a wonderful being. Valuable. Treasured. Special.
If I were my friend, I’d remind me we all have ups and downs, bad days and good days, successes and challenges… We all make good and not-so-good choices. We are all human.
If I were my friend, I’d tell me I understand… I get lost sometimes. And that is ok. I just have to find my way back.
If I were my friend, I’d tell me… I’d tell me all the things I would tell someone I love, care for. And I’d hope I would listen. Believe.
Why do we tell others, with all honesty, love and faith, the things we do not believe for ourselves? Better: why don’t we believe for ourselves the things we, honestly, lovingly, tell our friends?
Alenka H., 2022