Recently, I’ve been looking inside, thinking about my past – the good, the bad and how it all connects, how it shapes who I am, where I’m going.
At its core, this crown is a symbol of friendship, started by the childhood friendships that I still have and continued by the long lasting, state-line crossing friendships I’ve continued to make everywhere I go.
They are tried. They’ve helped me through depression, emotional abuse, anxiety, suicide ideations, travel, isolation, starting over.
They are true. They are honest conversations, sincere questions, keeping in touch through unique methods, calling me out on my shit, kindly listening when I need to be all talk.
While I envisioned the placement immediately, the symbolism didn’t occurred to me until later. The crown is behind me – as are my friends. Our memories – our tears, our laughter – create my foundation and safe haven as the harshness of the world tests me. Friendship grounds me. My friends have my back.
In relationships, I have my share of self-doubt. Am I a good partner, daughter, employee, steward of the planet? But I do not doubt my capacity for friendship. I am a great friend and I love being a great friend. I love being a personal hype man, a shoulder to cry on, going on adventures, staying in, talking about everything, laughing at nothing. It is one of the best aspects of who I am.
Friends, you inspire me. I’ve got your back like you’ve got mine. Let the wild rumpus start!