Hello, how are you?

Hi. How are you?

You know there are times I feel empty, too. I agree, we have our own feelings in our own hearts. But, still, I want you to know that somebody understands. I hope you don’t mind allowing someone to give a hand.

Hello. How have you been?

How long has it been? You know there are moments I also feel down. No matter how hard I try, I cannot fathom why. I know you won’t easily believe me when I say, “It’s going to be okay.” I agree, it takes painfully long sometimes. But in the process, please know you don’t need to come up with any valid reason why. Time has a way of healing. Be kinder to yourself, let us give it a try.

Hi. I just thought about you.

You are not alone in this world, believe me. We don’t have perfect lives, and happiness is not always on our side. I know it may be hard to believe that loneliness does not discriminate. Everyday is not always as beautiful. Still, I hope you can realize that waking up today is truly a blessing. You are doing a great job daily just by surviving. Please, please don’t ignore this gift today, and may you always choose to live one more day.

Hello, how are you feeling today?

This may sound like a cliché, but it’s okay not to be okay. You can call me, I’ll listen. You may think you’re trapped, but by acknowledging the feeling, you are actually free. I don’t expect you to believe me hastily. Asking for help and sharing stories in this world are for free. Would you even care to listen to me? We are in this together, don’t ever think you are a bother.

Hi. Can I talk to you?

Someone, somewhere is fighting the same battle, too. I know it is easier to keep everything to yourself today. I don’t judge if you prefer healing this way. I know you won’t believe me, but I care about you. You can doubt the intentions of a stranger, but your life is too precious just not to care. I am reaching out in the hope you can give it another try. Life is beautiful with all its mess; please give it time.

Hi, I want to thank you.

Your presence matters to someone in this world. Yes, it does. You can talk to me, to a friend, to a stranger, and to our God above. You, still breathing and living, is a manifestation of love. I know you may find it hard to believe a stranger like me, but you can actually breathe, whisper and talk about anything and everything in prayer. Today may be dark, but with Him you never need to wear a mask.

Hello, how are you?

I wonder where you are now. I hope you can read this somehow.

We are here for you.

I am here for you.

Someone somewhere still needs to hear from you. We can win this. Reach for a hand before it is all over.

* * *

Ma. Erika Oliveanne P. Castillejo, 27, is a banker.