Dear Melissa:I know you’re struggling right now and it seems like nothing is ever going to get better. You might feel like the walls are closing in and that no matter how hard you try, you’re feel are stuck in that metaphorical mud. It’s hard. I know.
I know it seems like nothing is ever going to be the same again, too. I know you feel like you’ll never be that girl you once were, and you look back on what you call your “old” like and miss it so much. You didn’t realize how good you had it before, you think.
But I’m here to tell you one thing: You ARE getting better. You might not be able to see it now, but each day, you are getting stronger and stronger. You are back at work, which is something to be extremely proud of. When you were in the hospital, I didn’t know how you’d ever go back to work, but you did. That right there is a testament to your strength and willpower. You haven’t lost your strength. Sure, you may have to look a little harder to find it, but it’s there. It never went away, so take comfort in that.I know you miss your writing too. It seems like writing anything is a struggle now, but baby steps is the way to go here. Know that your concentration and writing pizazz will come back in time. So until then, write what you can and know that that is enough for now. We both know you have trouble hearing the word patience so many times, so I won’t tell you to remain patient. Instead, I’ll tell you to remain calm. Does that help?
Also, take comfort in the fact that people love you and want to help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. And don’t be afraid to go easy on yourself right now. You’ve been through a lot and are still recovering. Don’t be afraid to go at your own speed, whatever speed that may be.
You, Melissa, are a heck of a lot stronger than you think you are. You’re a fighter, so let’s see some more of that fighting spirit; we both know it’s in you. Look at all you’ve been through. You got through all that, and you’ll get through this. I promise you. And we both know I’ve never been one to lie about anything.
[Photos via Audrey Hepburn Complex]
ag. says
I think we could all spend some time writing letters to ourselves…we could learn so much! You really are a fighter!
lark + linen says
this was beautiful Melissa. You are such an inspiration and know that you are loved. You are so loved around the world. Look at the impact you've made in people's lives. You've touched a lot of people in a lot of ways. It will get better as the days go on
desireejaclyn says
Loved reading this Melissa – it actually helped me right now too, as I also feel "stuck in the mud." Keep pushing, you're doing better day by day. Hugs!!!!!
{andthisiswhatshesaid} says
I love this. Keep pushing. xox
Anonymous says
Dear Melissa,
Know that through good times and not so good, you have a faithful following of people who love and support you. Thank you for lifting us up when we needed it and let us do the same for you.
Hugs and love,
PA 🙂
Melissa Blake says
Thanks for these sweet comments.
Desiree, I'm thinking about you and sending you good vibes!
Wendy says
I think this could be universal "letter to ourselves". I know you wrote this for -you- but it definitely spoke to me and I'm sure several others. Awesome stuff!
shaz says
I love your blog. Lifts me up when am down,.. Good stuff!
Kehly says
Ah this spoke to me so much. I think we all go through hard times and I am thankful for your lovely words of inspiration while I go through mine. You are amazing.
Best wishes.
Just Energy says
You are such an inspiration and know that you are loved. You are so loved around the world. Look at the impact you've made in people's lives.