A two-way love 4

​With time and a bit of hindsight, we come to understand that our choices weren’t always the best. Regardless, we decide to move forward, to keep going, to trust, and to forgive—no matter the cost—because it is all part of the process. We forgive ourselves because having paid such a price was worth it; it allowed us to evolve and be ready for the next stage. Appreciation is one of the key factors of happiness in life and a rigorous lesson to learn, but mastering it grants access to a deeper understanding of life's concepts.

​Meli: "Come on, Max! Let’s take a photo together!"

Max: "What for? I’m not really into taking photos."

Meli: "What? What’s wrong? Are you shy? Who would’ve thought a big guy like you would be shy? I guess you never know."

Max: "No, it’s not that I’m... fine, okay! We’ll take the photo together since that's what you want."

Meli: "Thanks! That makes me really happy."

Max: "You’re welcome, Meli."

​When you have known war, it is difficult to believe that this world isn't just made of cruelty and fleeting things. Our reality is built from fragments of our past and the continuity of the present. We try to stay optimistic; we face our fears and the traumas of the past to better approach the future. Idealism does not belong in a chaotic world.

​Herick: "Yo Max! Grab a few beers this afternoon?"

Max: "Can't, bro. I’ve already got plans this afternoon."

Herick: "Since when, man? Now you’re spending more time with your girl than with us. You should think about marrying her one day, since she makes you so happy."

Max: "Drop it! You’re always getting on my case about useless stuff. You’re forgetting that she and I come from two different worlds. Besides, most of the time, I’m the one who has to reach out to her; otherwise, she won’t come to me or suggest anything."

​Our ego has always failed us; most of the time, it prevents us from accessing our own happiness. We prioritize "me" instead of "us." No one wants to make the first move for fear of being rejected, because we only feel good when we are in control. Over time, the illusion of this choice becomes a reality, fueled by other ideas and weighed down by trauma.