PC: Lucretia

[overlimit]

Comments

[ambiography]

I think this kind of situation makes it easy for that to change. There's only so much you can do to avoid others in close quarters, like this, and with all your time spent around them...

Distance becomes harder.

[overlimit]

[... she nods.]

It's just... stupid. Like there's no right answer.

You let people in close, and you get hurt.

You try to keep them away, and you get to think about what a jerk you were when it's too late to take any of it back.

[ambiography]

Then you get hurt either way.

[she just makes that correction quietly, with a small shake of her head.]

It's difficult, I know. Even in situations where you know someone won't be around in the long term-- we lean toward connecting with others. The bonds that tie everything and everyone together are a powerful force.

But I think there's more to be gained from letting yourself get to know others, and appreciating that time for what it is, than there is in protecting yourself from ever being hurt.

[overlimit]

Is there...?

... No, I guess I already know the answer to that. I've been through this before. Going from being totally alone, to making connections with people, being part of something... I'm glad that I did, in the end, but...

The first steps were the hardest ones to take.

[ambiography]

They always are, but-- I don't think I need to remind you, if you already know.

If you need help taking them, you can ask for it any time, Rita.

[overlimit]

[she looks up abruptly]

Uh--

... Thanks.