A Simple “How Are You?”

When someone asks me how I am, I often find myself at a crossroads. I want to say, “I am good,” but the truth is much more complicated. Life has been a rollercoaster, full of unexpected twists and turns, and lately, it feels like the ride is stuck in a dark tunnel. It’s been challenging, to say the least, but despite everything, I’m still here, breathing and moving forward.

There are days when I wish I could sit down with whoever is writing my story and ask them what they were thinking when they came up with this plot. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen or imagined. I wonder where they drew their inspiration from, and if there’s a movie or a book that could give me a clue about what’s coming next.

In reality, when I express how I truly feel, I worry about how others will perceive me. Will they see me as hopeless? Will they understand the depths of my struggle? These thoughts race through my mind, yet, when it comes down to it, I usually just say, “I am doing just fine.” It’s simpler, less vulnerable, and it spares me from the potential judgment of being seen as weak or overly dramatic.

When I say “I am doing just fine,” it’s not a lie, but it’s also not the full truth. It’s a protective shield, a way to navigate social interactions without diving into the depths of my emotions. But deep down, I long for someone to ask again, to look a little closer.

Talking about it, even now, brings a mix of emotions. There’s a sadness in laying bare the struggles, but also a sense of calm in not having to pretend. It’s exhausting, keeping up the façade that everything is fine. Admitting the truth feels like exhaling after holding my breath for too long.

I’ve come to realize that it’s okay to not have all the answers, to feel lost and unsure. It’s part of the human experience, this messy and unpredictable journey we’re all on. It’s a journey and despite the bumps and twists, W

e are still moving forward, one step at a time.

So, if I could truly answer the question “How are you?” with all honesty, I would say this: I’m struggling, but I’m surviving. Life has thrown some tough challenges my way, but I’m still here, holding on. There are moments of darkness, but also glimmers of hope that keep me moving forward. And for now, that’s enough.