My time, interest, presence, and desire are valuable on their own. They are the greatest gifts I have within me.

I write. I am a writer. People tell me beautiful things. I’ve dealt with difficult stories. Why would this little feeling be enough for me? Maybe that’s it—it’s not enough. I’m not satisfied. I want to be celebrated because I also know I am a lot, even if I don’t always feel that way. I deserve to be treated as someone who matters, not just to be there. I’m not here to fulfill others’ needs, but I want to feel loved to be willing to do that. If I don’t feel wanted, there’s no