Take Up Space

I wish I never apologized for existing. For standing, walking, simply being somewhere somebody else was also existing. For being forced to be considered.

Isn't it so freeing to be in your own space? To be comfortable at home? To never apologize for something being in a new spot or for not cleaning up immediately. To not have to make excuses.

I grew up in a house full of consequences. For making noise, for reminding people that I have needs, for not walking on eggshells. Apologizing and escaping quickly was the safest option.

Now, I have to remind myself to take up the space I deserve. I have to train myself not to be hyper-aware of everything. Not to worry about everything everybody else is doing. As a child, it was important for me to spot the signs that something was "off" so I could prepare.

I don't need to do that anymore. Things are okay, whether I'm scared or not.

Take up space with your body and your opinions. It's perfectly fine.