We locked eyes for a few seconds as we walked past each other by the street. You face was stoic, expression straight. You moved on with agility. You held on firmly to that bag you were carrying. Your clothes looked simple, average. Now what do I know? You can never judge a person by what you see upfront. You never know. But I think I knew then.

     I think as I looked into your eyes for that brief moment, I saw the story of your life. Your childhood was rough. Your family was poor. You barely survived. But you tried. You tried to be a good child. The best. You had excellent grades in school. You helped your parents to earn money to pay for the family's needs. You struggled through your youth and you managed to get an average job with a meagre salary.

Your parents were proud, nonetheless. They urged you to get married. You found a wife, got married, had kids and yeah…
It's rough. The rent is due, the kids school fees aren't payed yet, there's barely enough money for food for the family.

That day, you were on your way to work. And we crossed paths. I don't know…but I think I do. We were all raised and conditioned to put up a façade. That it's alright.  “How are you?” “I'm fine.” I know, I know, we don't want to burden people with our problems. But it's funny, we're all going through something and we've all gone through rough times. It's not all the same but still.

Anyway, just incase someone hasn't told you yet, you're doing a great job. You're brave, hardworking, smart and you're incredible. I know it's hard but take a step back and look at where your persistence has gotten you. Isn't that amazing? It's motivation enough. Keep going. I'm proud of you. It will get better, I promise.

And just like my favourite singer, Conan Gray says, “it's not the end of the story…I think that it could work for you and me. Just wait and see.”