Support

Everyone always says that the one person who really matters in supporting you is you. You are your own support system. At the end of the day, it doesn't matter what anyone else says, as long as YOU are happy with what you did. Yadayadayada.

Really? Cuz at my graduation, I was not applauding myself in the audience. I was on stage, glaring at everyone, telepathically telling them to clap for me, or bad things would happen.

When I headed my school production, and I was up there saying my speech, I was hoping the audience was big enough that my words would make an impact. And oh ya, my mother was there, and I knew she would applaud me.

So that isn't really true. You can't only rely on yourself. When you get a good mark on a test, or buy a shirt at a bargain price, you are bursting to share it with someone. And somehow, it doesn't seem to be the same when you say,
'Guess what Altie?!'
'What??'
'I got 100% on my test!!'
'Yay!'
'I know!'
'I'm proud of me!!'
'I know! Me too!'

Ya, just not the same.

Of course, it's always nice to buy yourself something when you did good. Like, oh I'm so proud of myself, I am gonna splurge and buy that new pair of boots I really wanted! Yay for me!

But for some reason, it feels much nicer when the support comes from a friend. When you are struggling with a problem, and you finally resolve it, it feels so good to whisper to your friend, 'it's over', and see her beam with pride, cuz she knows exactly what you are talking about.

And when you come home and find a present on your bed, and you know it's from your parents cuz they are proud of you, it makes your victory all the more special.

Presents aren't everything. A hug, a word, a look. Just to KNOW that someone else has your back, that they CARE what you do, that when you are going through hard times, they are there with you, they understand your struggle, and cheer you on till the very end.

That is what matters. Yes, YOU can support YOU, but knowing that someone else does too, that's what makes the struggles all the more bearable, and the victory, that much sweeter.