And Yet There Is Hope

The warm sun soaking into my skin . . . I feel comfort amidst all of the chaos. I’m still alive. I’ve been given another chance to hurt, to heal, to fight, to love, to bruise, to fall and to rise up. I’m reminded that the universe still loves me otherwise I wouldn’t be here, and the sky still chooses to shine her face upon mine. The ground still provides me with a foundation to stand on, even when I don’t feel so steady. That is love, and even when things feel so heavy there is still so much love to be found.

Ashley Merkley

Letter to Someone Who Won’t Answer

My dear love, This is embarrassing. And maybe a tad extreme, but hear me out. Please, just give me a chance? I love the holidays and I think there’s always a reason to dance. I’m fond of wind chimes and singing melodies made by men who were as high as Mars. I like kind men with soft hands who enjoy kissing in cars. I enjoy being appreciated, loved and cared for. In return I’ll give you all I am physically capable of. I have the inherent ability to learn exactly how much milk you like in your coffee, and will always be there to draw pictures with you when the windows are frosty. I like men who will dance with me to a melancholy rendition of whatever I choose, who wear funny socks and bright-colored shoes. I may be insane. You may find this perplexing.

I have one last mention, to prove I’m nothing more than a dope. The fact that you’re out there, is what gives me hope. Promise me you won’t stop being you. Promise me you’ll always keep smiling, even when life is rough. Seeing your smile is what makes me continue to want to love. This letter is for you, because I love you so. I’m scribbling it here, because you’ll never know. Signed, just a friend.