thanks for being here.
today you are born again.
today you are alive.

struggling through
another day,
another
decade.

-it does get better
I
promise.

and I can't say I love you
because I don't.
but someone out there
does.

even if it's mom, or dad,
or a distant relative.

if you feel like giving up again,
please don't.
if you're thinking about ending it all;

tonight
or possibly tomorrow
hang in there just a little
longer

even with
palms sweaty,
arms aching,
callused skin...

pick yourself up.
no- not a weapon
or a razor
or comfort food- those cookies

sitting on the kitchen counter.

you don't need em'
I
promise.

get up and look at yourself.
yeah. in the mirror.

and repeat aloud, "I love myself."
repeat this until you believe.
promise
me.

if you are happy-
truly happy,
not with all the material *******
but truly happy with yourself-

with your virtues and values,
I applaud you.

but you deserve a standing ovation
either way.
for showing up for life.
you made it-
thank yourself for being alive.