on 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 all of that is 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, yet I feel pretty confident I'll be fine. I can find something else.
But.
I would never be as happy alone as I am with others: my family, friends, and loved ones — heck, 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.