If you grew up having to figure things out on your own...
I'm glad you're here.
This time is just for you.
Feel where your body touches the chair or the floor.
Breathe in slowly...
And let it out...
heavier this time.
Put one hand on your chest.
it warm up under your palm.
Picture the grown-up you are today.
The part of you that's steady.
The one who pays the bills and keeps showing up.
Now picture a younger you.
Maybe seven or eight.
Sitting at a kitchen table after school,
and the house is too quiet.
Notice what that kid is wearing.
How they're sitting.
Notice what they're waiting
for.
Let the grown-up you walk into that kitchen.
Pull out a chair.
Sit down next to them.
You don't have to say anything yet.
Just be there.
Maybe that's the first time someone has.
If it feels right, put a hand on their back.
Let them feel how warm and solid you are.
If there was yelling in that house, or silence that felt cold...
Imagine yourself standing between that noise and the kid.
You're bigger now.
You can handle it.
Tell them, "You don't have to deal with this.
I've got it."
See their shoulders drop a little.
Maybe they lean against you.
They were so busy watching out for everyone.
Checking the mood of the room.
They can stop now.
That's your job.
Now give them the permission nobody gave you.
Say it slowly, to them, and to yourself.
You're allowed to be a kid.
You're allowed to need help.
You're allowed to make mistakes and still be loved.
You don't have to earn rest.
I'm not going anywhere.
Let that younger you stay close.
On your lap, or next to you.
Wherever feels right.
Breathe in, and feel them there with you.
Breathe out, and let the kitchen fade.
They're coming with you.
It might feel awkward at first.
Most new things do.
In daily life, when you're hard on yourself, you can pause.
Ask, "What does the little one need right now?"
Then give it, if you can.
Feel your hand still on your chest.
Give it a small pat, like you would a friend.
Let your eyes open slowly.
You raised yourself this far.
You don't have to do it alone anymore.