I'm Glad You Woke Up Today
Dear Self,
I’m glad that you woke up today.
Even though we’ve only been up for two minutes, I know you already have too many thoughts running around inside your head. Why do we start stressing the moment we break consciousness? Why is that our most natural response to the gift of a new day?
I wanted to tell you that it’s okay to read your book for too long this morning.
It’s okay to enjoy your cup of coffee without trying to accomplish anything else at the same time.
It’s okay to get distracted by the hummingbird outside your window and enjoy its company.
I know you feel like it’s irresponsible to not be productive first thing in the morning - like your day doesn’t actually begin until you accomplish something that isn’t enjoyable for you. It’s okay to feel that way, but it’s okay to not feel that way, too. I know it’s easier to feel stressed so that we will be able to brag about accomplishments that we don’t care about to people we are scared of disappointing. It hasn’t really been working though, has it?
It’s okay to feel the sun on your skin and marvel at its warmth.
It’s okay to learn more than you create.
It’s okay to feel peaceful.
You’re a cool person. You’re worth more than the sum of your accomplishments. Your life does not only consist of what everyone else perceives you to be.
It’s okay that you quit that thing last year.
It’s okay when someone misunderstands you.
It’s okay…
Even though we’re just starting a new day, I think it’s going to be a good one. Even if it’s not, try to love someone, learn something, and be grateful. Stress less about what everyone thinks of you and focus more on how you can help them. Give a real hug, a real smile, and laugh real hard.
I’m glad that you woke up today.