15 Comments
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Marie A. Rebelle's avatar

I know I must've read this before, but reading it again now has me in tears. This is just beautiful, May. I find a lesson here: there are always others like us. This is so true. It made me think of myself, of how I sometimes just do too much for people to accept me, to like me, while I should just stay with my 'others' who accept me exactly as I am. I think that's why your experiences now drove me to tears/ Thank you for sharing πŸ’œ

May More πŸ’œ's avatar

thanks Marie - making friends can be a weird experience as you get older

Brittany McTier's avatar

Great read. I can deeply relate to the vulnerable but comforting feeling of being completely open with a stranger…free of judgment, with no need to keep your guard up. I’ve had a few moments like that this past year, especially when I was on the verge of breaking down (and sometimes did, after holding things in for so long). Hearing someone you’ve never met reflect similar feelings or experiences is oddly grounding. It reminds you that you’re not alone in it. Thank you for sharing this May.

May More πŸ’œ's avatar

thank you so much for your comment. I do hope you are feeling OK now. Take care

Brittany McTier's avatar

Thank you May, I am. I appreciate the care 🀍

Sissitrix's avatar

For no reason, it reminds me of Wings of Desire, in that film a fallen angel wanders freely among mortals, his armor under his arm, having abandoned it to live among us. Weak, exposed, but wildly alive.

May More πŸ’œ's avatar

Hey - good to see you and thanks for your comment - i don't know that film but that guy really lifted me and it felt as if he was an angel of sorts - I had reached a real low point when i briefly met him

Sissitrix's avatar

Hey May, that moment you described, and how you wrote it, moved me deeply. Thank you for this sincerity, it is always good to read you. I recommend Wings of Desire by Wim Wenders.

May More πŸ’œ's avatar

means a lot to me - thank you - I will check it out

Yuni Jung's avatar

I'm glad you had your stranger others. I would like to meet someone like that, tooβ€”maybe at an airport bar or a cafe. I'm drawn to older women who feel like aunt or mom figures to me, but I haven't had luck finding my others. I wonder if I have a "Don't touch me, I am going to bite you." vibe. Thank you for your beautiful article.

May More πŸ’œ's avatar

i think the stranger experience more likely happens when you just arn’t waiting/looking - and i do feel it’s an angel experience in a way. thank you for reading and commenting.

Nevena Pascaleva's avatar

I remember that story- so moving!

Dianne Moritz's avatar

I'm sure both guys remember you, especially the one down on his luck, but more importantly YOU remember. These types of moments are self-defining.....demonstrating your empathy and love. Bravo to you!

May More πŸ’œ's avatar

thank you for your words Dianne

Diana C.'s avatar

Ah, been feeling "out of sync" since the pandemic. I felt every word, May:) and "find your others" is a powerful mantra.