The Stand-In

by Lily Chu

I need a list that motivates me to do things instead of one that makes me feel I’ll never catch up.

Would you like some advice or to figure it out yourself?”

Oh. That was easier than I thought.

Maybe I am a loser, but at least I’d help someone with their suitcase.

She’s so fucking graceful, goddammit.

it’s not my job to make this go smoothly. I blink. That’s not something I usually think.

Once they’re listed, I realize I’d spent the whole time working on the list instead of doing any tasks.

Mom energy, man. When it works, it works good.

Luckily, there is no moment too romantic and no experience too wondrous that my brain cannot ruin.

Help isn’t anything to be ashamed of and it doesn’t take away from my independence.

“Okay.” What a wonderfully fluid word that is, depending on the tone.

Don’t Think, Do column—saved

I worry about taking too much space, too much time, too much attention. Maybe I shouldn’t. Maybe it’s possible to take up the perfect amount. A Gracie-sized amount.