Hey friend,

I know sometimes you get sad, and it feels like there isn’t really a reason. I get that way, too. I just wanted you to know that you aren’t alone in that. It may feel so silly, because you have nothing to be sad about. But I’ve learned something that may help you feel less broken for this unexplained sadness that sometimes gets you down: You aren’t sad “for no reason”, even if it feels like you are.

No, you’re sad because it’s raining. Or it’s winter. Or it looks like it is about to storm. You’re sad because pets die, and stuffed animals get left behind, and there are kids who still have to sleep with nightlights. You’re sad because there are kids with no nightlights, or adults to care about them. You’re sad because even on your best day there are still people who are hurting. You’re sad because you care.

Because the planet feels like it’s slowly dying. Because maybe your kids will one day live in a world without polar bears and elephants. Because no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to get your tomatoes to ripen, or your houseplants to thrive. You’re sad because despite all the lovely little things around you, it’s all fleeting. Those blossoms will fall. The trees will lose their glorious color. The days will shorten and it will be dark. For a long time.

You’re sad because governments and corporations and revolutions and non-profits, no matter what they say, don’t really seem to care about all people. You’re sad because you want everyone to feel the same love and tenderness that you feel from those in your circle, but not everyone has a circle like yours. You’re sad because despite our best efforts, people are still homeless, and people still starve, and people still can’t get life-saving medical care, and people are still dying with no one to come to their funeral. You’re sad because all of that is inside you, and sometimes it’s just too much to know. Too heavy to carry.

Because the sun will set. Because another hurricane will hit. Because someone will be disconnected for not paying their electric bill. Because somewhere, there is a mother who will refuse to pick up the phone when her son calls. Because there is never enough money for those who don’t already have enough. Because those who have too much will never be willing to share enough of it to make a difference.

You aren’t sad “for no reason.” You’re sad because you’re human, and because you love other humans. You love the planet and all its beautiful, wild wonders. You love day and warmth and light because that is how you were made. And when those things diminish, fade, are obscured, retreat, are hidden…well, that makes you sad.

And you know what? All of that is perfectly okay. I just thought you might like to hear it from someone who knows.