Dear you,

 

If you haven't heard it today

I believe in you,

even though we've never met.

I believe in you because I know it is hard

to believe in yourself,

when you feel like nothing you do is enough

when you feel like nothing is going right

when you feel like you are alone.

 

If you haven't heard it today

you are beautiful or handsom,

take your pic,

although I can't see you I know it's true.

I know because I know that,

when you do something wrong you believe you are wrong

when you eat you judge

when you see others you compare yourself.

 

If you haven't heard it today

you are valuable,

you are worth more than you believe,

you are loved.

I say this because I have felt it all.

The loneliness,

the darkness,

the self-hate.

 

I tell you all of this because

I've felt this.

I've been hurt.

I've fight my own demons.

anxiety

depression

eating disorders

I've been on both sides

I've wanted to hear those words

even when I don't believe it

I understand.

 

I will not offer you pity

Nor sympathy itself

I offer you empathy.

I say what I say not because I intend to save you

but because I mean it all

and know we all suffer

at the hands of others

and our own.

 

Whether or not you believe me,

it is up to you ,

but I want you to remember 

that you're human too.

It's okay to not be perfect,

it's okay to be upset,

it's okay to be confused.

I know it's hard to ask for help,

and what it is like to feel alone,

but if you don't reach ouch

you'll be stuck on your own.

 

My arms are open,

my heart is warm,

I'll let you know that you're not alone.

Don't take your life,

don't turn to the blade,

don't try to purge,

don't run away,

just take a breath

and take it day by day,

 

I will tell you if you haven't heard it today:

You are strong and beautiful.

You are smart and kind.

You are loved and cared for.

You are one of a kind.

So don't let the world take that away,

you are needed here,

so please try your best to stay.

 

Yours truly,

Michelle Rodriguez