From Heart to Paper
February 3, 2025
Writer: Pavitra Sugatan
Editors: Tyler Peterson & Victoria Pescod
In this season of change, it is normal to feel uncomfortable, doubtful, or even scared of your surroundings. Change can often feel like stepping into the unknown—a space where old routines crumble, familiar faces drift, and new challenges loom large. It’s a natural response to feel uncertain, to question your place in the world, or to wonder if you’re equipped to handle what comes next. However, in moments like these, it is essential to remember one powerful truth: you are not alone. You have your people—the friends, family, mentors, and loved ones—who are there to support you, no matter what hardships you face. They have your back, even when everything else feels unstable.
Leaning on your people during times of change is not a sign of weakness, but a testament to the strength of your connections. Often, we think we need to tackle life’s struggles independently, but the truth is, human beings thrive on connection and community. Whether it’s a late-night phone call with a friend, a hug from a loved one, or a kind word from a mentor, these moments of support remind us that we don’t have to navigate life’s uncertainties alone. Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and encourage you can make even the most challenging transitions feel more manageable.
One of the most meaningful ways to nurture these relationships, while also taking care of yourself, is by practicing gratitude. Writing letters of gratitude or doing small acts of kindness for the people you love is a simple yet profound way to strengthen those connections. Gratitude has a unique power to uplift both the giver and the receiver. It’s not just an outward expression of appreciation, but also an inward act of self-care. When you take the time to acknowledge the people who have positively impacted your life, you create a ripple effect of positivity that extends beyond the moment.
Last semester, I experienced this first hand in my social psychology class. As part of an assignment, we were tasked with writing a letter of gratitude to someone we care about. Initially, I wasn’t sure what to write–they already know that I love and appreciate them. But as I sat down to reflect on how much this person meant to me, I found the words pouring out like water. Writing the letter became an opportunity to recognize how much this person’s presence had enriched my life. When I shared the letter, they felt seen, valued, and loved. Knowing that I had made someone else viscerally feel appreciated and cherished filled me with a sense of joy and fulfillment.
So, if you find yourself feeling uncertain or overwhelmed during this period of time, remember to lean on your people and express your gratitude. Write a letter, send a message, or perform an act of kindness for someone you care about. Not only will it make them feel valued, but it will also remind you of the strength and love that surrounds you. In doing so, you’ll find that even in the most uncertain times, you are never truly alone.
