On Kindness
I, a person famously bad at asking for things, have had to ask people for things this week. And it has gone well. Like, I feel very lucky and grateful in a way that I cannot properly articulate.
I’m not really a crier, unless there’s an animal involved. But I have cried more happy tears this year than I ever have the rest of my damn life. And it’s somewhat hilarious, because I used to tease my mom for that exact reason. Her feelings were always very close to the surface. But happy tears, this much, are pretty damn new to me.
It’s just been nice. Even admit the chaos, which there’s been a lot of, too.
So, I’m going to share with you some cool things my friends are doing. Because holy shit, my friends are incredible.
Cassandra Khaw has a new book coming out soon, and y’all are gonna need The Library at Hellbore.
My friend C.S.E. Cooney just gave an interview about Saint Death’s Herald, which you can check out here.
My friends Tilly and Susan Bridges made a movie (also with friends of mine), Long Away!!
My darling friend Sara is offering private dance lessons in NYC.
And lastly, Victoria Helen Stone has a new book out! Snag Bald-Faced Liar.
One final thing, before I trot off this week: I have never forgotten a kindness that was given to me. The soft words. The gestures big and small. Sometimes, the bad stuff is easier to remember, but there are moments that have kept me afloat. And I’m not sure we tell people that enough—that the kindnesses matter—in the moment.
Always say it out loud, darlings. Trust me.
XOXO
Leaving you with a favorite song: