27 days with her.

“In the middle of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.”

For a long time, I thought I knew her. She was perpetually smiling, spreading happiness, and bolstering others' self-confidence. Yet, I was oblivious to the fact that these were the very things she yearned for herself—a deeper comprehension from someone. I thought I knew her. Indeed, she harbored dreams, not of acquiring cars or a grand house. Her aspirations soared beyond what anyone could envision. She didn't dream of a life of luxury or pricey branded clothes. Instead, she dreamed of a life that made waking up each morning worthwhile, greeted by the birds' songs, the first sound she wished to hear, the fresh air she longed to breathe upon opening her window, and just enough money to satisfy daily needs. She has always shown kindness to the right people, those who live true to their nature, even if they are often oblivious to their own deeds.

But somewhere along the way, I realized that the person I thought I knew was a carefully crafted version of someone, molded by expectations, routines, and the need to fit into roles she didn’t choose. She wasn’t the real one; there was a mask that she wore because it felt easier than confronting the truth: She had lost touch with who she truly was. She used to make fun of herself during awkward situations, she always helped people upfront, like a quiet guardian. She has a natural instinct to notice when others are struggling, even in the smallest ways. She never even seeks recognition or praise; her motivation comes from a place of genuine care and empathy. 

What came by surprise was I never saw her holding a book in her life until these 27 days that I've spent with her. She was never not without a book. I really don't get her at this point. But this one day she told me what reading does to her and I'd like you to visualize the world she mostly lives in, through this,

"Reading makes me feel like I am wandering through a lush, enchanted forest where every page turned is a step deeper into the unknown. With each word, I unravel the delicate threads of my imagination, discovering realms that shimmer with possibilities and mysteries waiting to be uncovered. In the quiet sanctuary of my reading book, the inked letters transform into portals, transporting me to places where the mundane falls away and the extraordinary takes flight. The stories awaken ancient echoes within me, resonating with the wisdom of long-forgotten myths and the pulse of universal truths. In these moments of literary communion, I become a vessel for the stories, transcending the limits of time and space. I see myself dancing with whirling dervishes, beneath starlit skies, sails across enchanted seas, and whispers with the spirits of wisdom in the enchanted groves of my mind. Oh! to be at a place like that"

"Oh! to be at a place like that", I said. I sat there, still. There was a comforting silence in that loud awakening of the mind
and then there was a calm chaos. I see a paradox here! Well, what else her life was all about? I've seen her close enough to know what exactly is going on in her mind, yet I have never fully known her. 

These 27 days with her were more peaceful, genuine and content, than these 27 years. I love her! 

You know sometimes, we think we know ourselves, until life shows us there’s so much more to discover. This was my story of self-discovery, and I will see you in the comment section to listen to yours. 

Thank you!

Love-love 🧡