I’m Here

Slice of Life '24 1 Minute

Raindrops gather on the windshield.

The clock marks 8:44—10 minutes before I walk into the building. I can give myself a few minutes to process before I have to respond.

Elena, this morning I thought about friendship and how hard it is to be there for those we love. She got the kind of news she prepared herself for, and now I sit here in this bleak and muted space.

8:50—I let the rain wash over my emotions. There’s no space for them right now. It’s all about hers.

Elena, I’ve learned that being a friend hurts because we care so deeply. There’s no manual on what protocols to follow in situations like this. Do they need to vent? Are they quietly asking for advice? Or is it just an open door so we can sit in the pain with her?

It hurts to see her hurting.

8:57—I have to go inside, but my body is frozen, and my fingers rest on the phone’s screen. I know the words, but they are devoid of meaning or power. I feel ashamed to write them, but she needs to hear them—that I’m simply here.

8:59—The clouds close in on me, and I feel powerless. I think of you and the friends I hope you make in your life. I hope you get the “I’m here” texts.

Published by Ana Valentina Patton

I aim to be a learner, not a knower. If I forget, please remind me.

Published

9 thoughts on “I’m Here”

  4. Oh, the hardest words to write & the best to receive. One of my best friends is currently living through something terrible & there is *nothing* any of us can do except be there. I understand every moment of this post – letting the emotions wash over you, feeling helpless. Yes to the kind of friendship that hurts when bad things happen; yes to wishing that for your own child; yes to being there, especially when that’s all you can do. Hugs.

    Liked by 1 person

  8. That’s all we need from our friends. To know they are there for us. I’m so grateful for all the times you have been there for me ❤️

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