An Ode to Self Advocacy

Here you are.

All alone, yet surrounded by people with opinions.

Here you are.

All alone, yet surrounded by people who think they know what's best for you.

Here you are.

All alone, yet surrounded by people who judge your every move because they haven't the slightest idea what it's like to live your reality.

Here you are.

All alone, yet surrounded by people who claim to know your answers, yet refuse to listen, learn, and hear your stories.

Here you are. All alone, yet surrounded by people who ignore your pain and simultaneously mock, ridicule, and blame you for all you have been through.

Here you are. All alone, yet surrounded by people who may not ever see.

Here you are.

All alone.

Yet, maybe...

perhaps, one day,

you will begin to see

that when all have left,

and all are gone,

there is one that yet remains -

And that, my love, is you.

(Sending so much love to all who are in pain and feel alone for whatever reason. Self advocacy starts with self love, but also includes finding the people who WILL have your back.

Please seek the help you need.

I found this post to be super helpful. It does reference self advocacy as it relates to organizations, but the concepts can be applied to other aspects of life as well.

Also, the concepts in this blog post do not replace the need for proper mental health care. If you are experiencing mental illness, please seek help through a licensed mental health professional.)

Lots of love,