Sydney H.
Photography by Mina Derebail
Dear Reader,
In this letter, there is mention of self-harm. If you think you may find this content triggering, please consider reading one of the other letters on IfYoureReadingThis.org, or prepare to access any support systems or resources you find helpful.
Sincerely, The IfYoureReadingThis Georgetown Team
If you’re reading this, forgive yourself.
Forgive yourself for the scars and the nights wasted lying awake, wondering why you’re here. You don’t have to relive them.
Forgive yourself for the pain you caused, for the heaviness of the tears shed on your behalf. Know that the worry from others, even if it made you feel burdensome, was never a burden to them. That was love: raw and real and messy. Know that you deserved it, and you still do.
Forgive yourself for the times you couldn’t get out of bed, for the moments you felt the world was too heavy or harsh. You don’t owe anyone perfection. You owe yourself compassion.
Forgive yourself for the silence, for the words you couldn’t say, for the calls unanswered. Even in your quiet, you were worthy of love.
Stop needlessly repenting for existing the only way you could, for feeling and thinking too much or too little. Your past does not define you. Your pain does not own you.
Move from still to standing. Turn towards the sun— it will always be there— and let its warmth remind you that you are here, you are still breathing and still growing.
Forgive yourself, not just because you deserve it, but because it’s the first step toward healing. The road ahead is yours to walk. With every step, know you carry strength within you. Let the sound of each forward footstep remind you of your rightful place in the world.
You are more than your hardest days. You are a survivor, a fighter. And although you might be strong enough to withstand it, you deserve easier days ahead, free from the crushing weight of constant resilience.
Forgive yourself. And in the moments when it feels like too much again, remember this: You are loved. You are needed. You are enough.
Sydney H., Georgetown University
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