whisper

“Can I be close to you?” I wished to say to the kid standing on a branch of a narra tree, her eyes wide open as she looked at the world in front of her, unaware of how small her view was.

“There is a bigger world waiting for you here.” I mumbled knowing she couldn’t hear or see me. I wished to tell her not to be afraid, to do the things a young girl should enjoy. “Lift your feet from the shackles, step outside your comfort zone… you have to live and not regret not choosing to.”

I wished to tell her that she’s more than her awards. That she is not what people expects her to be.

“Hey, curious little girl,” I called out, “It’s okay to make mistakes… you will make mistakes… even express unfavorable opinions… and make decisions that will hurt you… but that’s okay… don’t beat yourself up because we’re both living for the first time. Eventually, you’ll understand why all of it happened… it will strengthen you… you will grow carrying every piece of it… it will take time, but you will be okay.”

“I can’t wait to grow old!” you said enthusiastically, looking at the field which has become your playground. I smiled, tears brimming my eyes, “I know we like the advantages we saw grown-ups have, but it’s a different world here, little one. Please don’t forget to live your today… do not allow the future to take control of your present. Do what you can do today. Breath. Survive. And live as if it’s your last.”

Live intentionally. Make most of everyday. And find joy in the littlest of things.

We will be okay.