A letter to myself:

Artalyn,

I can see you struggling right now. You're withdrawn and unsure of yourself.

The spark and confidence I know is in you has dimmed to the faint glow of a firefly somewhere off in the distance. Do you not realize how much of a phoenix you are? So many bad things have happened to you and yet you continually rise from the ashes. Just... don't let yourself burn so hot that you reduce your surroundings to ashes as well while you reform.

I know a few people already got singed the last time. I regret that but I've tried to make my apologies and I'm moving forward. The people who got hurt may be taking some time to heal from you, but don't count them all out. Some of them will return to you in time. Maybe after flaming out on their own, and you'll be there, experienced in regenerating, and a guide to the other side of the flame.

Don't let the darkness consume you once the fire goes out. You're only ash for a moment. There's a whole new life waiting for you.

[Side notes: Focus on who you want to be. You don't always get to choose every aspect of your being, but you can choose and work towards certain things. You can be kinder to yourself and others, find new ways to express yourself, walk away from unhealthy habits, and seek out good influences. Who do you want to be this time, phoenix?]

#Depression #Anxiety #Guilt #Shame #tryingtodobetter #Trying #lettertomyself #Phoenix #ArtTherapy #writingisgoodtherapy #getsomesleep

Photo of a painting I've been working on for a few years off and on (I'm a slow progress creative with ADHD symptoms; I do the best I can). One day I'll finish it. 🤞

Tldr: Art 🎨