needing others
People like to label needing others as a weakness, a character flaw.
I reject that idea.
Sure, I'm able to exist and not be miserable without a constant presence of others. I'm able to have a good time alone, without others. I have boundaries on what I'm willing to sacrifice for others. I think that's healthy.
People (myself included) may sometimes prefer using the word want because it sounds less needy. And although the line between needing and wanting is incredibly blurry, I don't think one is accurate enough here.
I want many things in my life, some of them a lot. But you can take any one (or multiple) of them away, and I feel pretty confident I'll be fine without them. I can find something else.
But.
I would never be as happy alone as I am with others: my family, friends, and loved ones — even strangers I get to help.
I need other people.
Not every moment.
Not to exist.
Not even to enjoy things.
But to live a truly meaningful and happy life.
I'm OK admitting it.
Needing others is human, not a character flaw.