The Journey Inward

Dear Love, what would you have me know today?

Bitty, I want you to know that your “messy” is also a message to others. Working through issues in real time shows others that they can do the same. It gives hope and encouragement and normalizes the process, not the product. You know this because you have been saved, inspired, and found in the writing of others.

I know you worry so much about publishing your writing in any way because it may not be an accurate portrayal of who you are in this moment. But it is an accurate reflection of who you were in some moment and others will find themselves there, too. In this way, writing has the ability to connect, support, and lift people so that they can keep going.

Will there be those who judge you or don’t understand you or think you’re still in that place? Yes, that is a definite possibility. But those are not the people you need to think about. The people to think about are those hungry for your words and thoughts and feelings. They will metabolize them and feel seen and heard and known.

Your writing is a deeply personal process that helps you find clarity and regulation. It helps you dig deeper and know yourself better, as well as those around you.

Remember, sweet Bitty, that we are all humans and therefore, imperfect. We are capable of so much that is productive and also destructive. We count on each other to illuminate the way forward and the way through. Your work does that even though you may never know its effect.

Bitty, I would have you know that your mess can be another’s message.

Photo: Actual footage of visiting daughter’s messy room. NJ. 8.2.24 by LA