You did all of that. You were dropped into an abyss of poverty and despair on the South Side of Chicago. Some how, you made it out. I’m so f***ing proud of you. You made a lot of mistakes trying to ignore all the pain you carried. I’m sorry so many people in your life hurt you. I’m sorry so many people you loved and trusted did not value you. F*** them. F*** them, they Momma and their cousins too! You were kind, loving, brave, bold, you did the best you could with what you could muster and figure out after your parents died. I’m so glad you fought for some semblance of freedom.
I love you. xoxoxo
Dear older self,
F*** it, girl we made it!!!!! We are here. Sarcoidosis, divorce, under valued, over stressed — but we are still here. Still surviving. I have one thing to ask of you: NEVER GIVE UP!!!! EVER!!! NEVER GIVE UP ON YOU. YOU ARE A SURE BET!!! If anyone can survive, it is you. Keep being a good person, keep being comical, keep being YOU. You deserve to live, Darling. You fought so hard to stand up after being knocked down. You fought so hard to be here and stand on your own. Enjoy this life. You are amazing, sagging tits, double chin, weight gain and all.