**Hey, Sis…**

# Just heard someone say, “Some of us never found time to be happy because we were too busy trying to be strong.” I felt that. I felt that a lot.

I think sometimes we get so used to *surviving* that we forget we’re allowed to actually *live.* For the longest time, all I knew was to **keep pushing. Keep going. Keep** ***everything*** **together. Be strong,** even when I was exhausted, overwhelmed, or just not okay. 

And honestly, sis, **I’m tired.** 

I’m tired of feeling like I need to be the one to handle things, or it won’t get done. I’m tired of putting **my feelings** on the back burner to spare the possibility that it might get blown out of proportion. I’m tired of thinking that if I *rest,* things will fall behind. I’m tired of being proud of myself just for **surviving** when really? **I just want to be** ***happy.*** 

Sometimes being *strong* becomes a **habit.** You become so good at **carrying** ***everything*** that nobody realizes how **heavy** it actually is. And maybe that’s the part I’m learning now…

✨ I don’t always have to be strong.  
✨ I can have bad days.  
✨ I can slow down.  
✨ I can cry.  
✨ I can admit when something hurts.

Because **surviving** is important—but I want to make room for **happiness,** too. 

**So, here’s the vent:**  
💭 I’m learning that putting yourself first isn’t *selfish,* and letting yourself be **happy** doesn’t mean you’ve stopped being strong. 💖

You’re Allowed to Live, Sis.