There were night when the weight of everything pressed down so heavily I could barely speak. I remember curling in on myself, thinking I’d finally broken too much to be worth fixing – but they were there. Not trying to fix me. Just… there. A hand on my back. A whispered “I’m not going anywhere.” Somehow, that was louder than any scream I had trapped inside. In those small, quiet ways, they reminded me that I did’t have to go through it alone – even when I didn’t believe that I deserved that kind of love – still don’t.

We’re different in so many little ways – they’re fuelled by coffee, I’m powered by tea – and somehow, we make it work. They’ve shown me what it’s like to be truly accepted, not in spite of my flaws, but with them. It’s not perfect, of course. I drive them up the wall sometimes (probably most of the time), though they repay the favour. But in between the chaos and the quirks, there is laughter, quiet smiles, shared tears, and the kind of memories that make me believe in the gentle strength of staying. We hold each other up, and I like to think we’re learning to grow together – not just side by side, but a little more whole because of one another.

So, to the one who stayed when I couldn’t stay with myself – thank you. You’ve helped me find safety in a world that doesn’t always feel safe. And to anyone reading this, if you’re navigating dark days or heavy feelings, please know you’re not alone. Support is out there – and sometimes, it begins with the courage to reach out. I’ve added links below to Mind and Samaritans – organisations that have helped many, myself included, find a way forward.

Until next time
With love and tea,
Edi 🫖

Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org

Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk