You & I, Rewritten

by Chip Pons

I feel seen.

my anxiety doesn’t tolerate weird social interactions like that,

radiating with intrigued concern. Probably for my clear mental and physical incompetence.

A considerable amount of time was spent begging my overactive mind to let me sleep.

I’m extremely cognizant of the train wreck that was.”

I do my best to appear calm, cool, and collected—three things I doubt I’ll ever be capable of being

what made me fall in love with writing in the first place. To be able to move someone so deeply by weaving together a specific set of words is something I find so impressive and beautiful. And daunting.

There is no shame in being in-tune with our emotional and mental health needs.”

I’ve never questioned Graham’s professionalism or dedication to this company before, but tonight, here in this cluttered corner of our building’s lobby, I’m getting a glimpse at just how strong and selfless of a leader this man is. “Because at the end of the day, the work can wait. There is nothing more important than our people.” As if I couldn’t be swooning any harder over this man, he adds, “Which now includes you, Will.”

I think he might be a unicorn?

I’m fine…This is fine.”

there is not a single soul in your life who thinks you’re not good enough.

I’ve always believed our emotions and our passion are a sign of strength.

like the good groupie I am,

“It’s okay if you’re not fine.”

overwhelms me in a way I wasn’t prepared for on a Thursday morning. Or in general.

I realize just how awkward of a human being I am. Why am I like this?

I mean, me?

it’s just that with him, it feels like exhaling. That’s the only way I can describe it. Like I’ve been holding this breath my entire life,” I point to my heart. “And then this man came along, and he sees me for who I am, and for the first time in my life, I can just be.”

the fact that he feels comfortable enough to be this vulnerable and trusting with his deepest truths is not lost on me.

“Who you are is someone to be proud of…I

“Of course you are, son…falling in love can be terrifying.” He leans forward, grabbing my forearm. “But it’s also the most beautiful and thrilling thing in the world. Everything changed the moment I met your mother, and there’s not a day that goes by that I don’t appreciate the life that I have because of her.”