It looks like we both have a lot to share and will need to summarize. But shall we order something to drink and eat first? I’ll try to be concise because I also want to hear your story.
“It’s depression.” «Welcome to my club,» he replied.
For security and confidentiality reasons, this story has been modified. You’ll understand why once you’ve read it.
A few days earlier:
-It’s great to see you! I saw one of your posts—are you going through a personal transformation?
-Ah, something like that. Or maybe I don’t know. I’m mostly taking time to rethink things—both personal and professional.
-Yeah, that’s what I thought. But hey, it’s great to see you here, strong. We work out—this is such a positive space for us. We release energy.
-I know, and honestly, I’m much happier than before to be back. At least one more time. I don’t know if I can keep up this physical pace, but it makes me happy to see people I’ve known for years still with the same energy. Hearing those words really lifts me up.
-Come on, let’s go strong—you’ll see, you’ll feel better.
Now:
Walking by the river. Hands in my pockets to keep them warm. I get the feeling the temperature has dropped. Makes sense—it’s six in the evening in winter. Though this winter feels like a mix of autumn and spring.
-Great to see you. Sorry about the mix-up with the location. Thanks for waiting.
-Don’t worry, I’m happy to see you too.
We’re both immigrants, and life has taken us on very similar paths. Except I have two little dogs. And he’s debating between a romantic relationship or getting a dog.
-My mother got very sick in November. It’s been hard for the family.
-I understand. And really, your role is to support your siblings. Accept that they are the ones making decisions, and for you, the distance can be tricky. But encourage them. Thank them for taking care of your parents.
-I know I’m not the only one. There are others around me facing hardships too.
-Yes, but that doesn’t mean your pain is any less. You have to learn to take care of yourself. You need to be well in order to take care of others—your mind, your heart, your physical health. Do you have someone to talk to about this?
-Yes, well… my therapist, and a couple of friends too.
-I’m here. I’m also about to start seeing a therapist soon. I have high hopes for the process. But your support circle should never be missing. You need to take the time to build that network—people you can call at any moment. And what about work?
-Yeah, well. Same as yours. I can’t anymore.
I’ve had mixed feelings. Some I can’t even name. I don’t know them. They’re complicated. But with music in my ears and the soft, cold wind freezing my face, I reflect.
I’ve been thinking a lot about my friend’s mother. I’ve been thinking a lot about him too. Moments of happiness aren’t the only times we can connect. When words fail to express how we feel, any gesture of care can give us strength to move forward.
If you’re going through one of those moments where words haven’t been enough lately, I’d love to talk. Let’s get a coffee—physical or virtual. Spanish, English, French or Romanian. I’m here.
Ave Migratoria 