An Open Letter to my Internet Friends

by Mae Ermac

IG: @Maeecyy || Twitter: @maeecyyyyy

I started 2021 with tears streaming down my face, so I expected that this year will be just the

same as 2020— full of tears and disappointments. And it was. The first few months was just me, breaking

down. The weariness of online class is slowly getting in me— I was exhausted. And I am getting tired of

life, I was slowly losing the will to live.

But my life made a sudden turn, what I expected to be the worst year turned out just fine. I

became friends with the most unexpected people. Some of the tiktok creators that I was so fond of

watching became my friends. And it opened a new door— a door to a new friendship.

From zoom sessions to discord, my circle of internet friends became bigger. I was used to making

friends in real life, but I never thought that the people I just met online would make a big impact in my life.

They’re a bunch of kids, full of life but the same time, they are kids who’s struggling in coping up with the

struggles of living in this hellhole. I met them in the perfect time. They are the ones I talked to every night,

and it was really fun. Sharing laughter and sadness with people I haven’t even met is actually enjoying.

To you, the one whose reading this:

Thank you. You may not know this but you unintentionally help me get rid of the suicidal thoughts

that’s been running in my mind for quite some time. I may not know you personally and I doubt that we’ll

ever see each other when all of this is over but I am truly grateful that I have known you.

I already said this before but I’ll say it again, don’t hesitate to message me if ever you’re going

through something. Treat me as your big sister. I am not someone who’s full of wisdom but I can definitely

give you some advices and tips in life that I’ve learned for the past years. I know you are dealing with the

challenges of life, you are fighting a silent battle, just like everyone else. But I hope, in time, you’ll get

through that. Studies may consume you, until you feel empty inside. But never give up, you’ll eventually

make it to the finish line.

Remember, that you are worthy, Worthy to be loved. Worthy of all the good things this world has

to offer. So never lose yourself to someone. Stop looking for love, it will come to you in the right time.

Enjoy being single, it’s more fun this way. Also, protect your peace of mind. Take good care of your

mental health as much as you take good care of your physical health. Know that your emotions are valid.

If you are experiencing something, you are allowed to feel a certain way about it. Your feelings are not

insignificant; they’re valid and they matter and the things you care about shape who you are. It’s what

makes you human—don’t stifle them.

Enjoy life. Life is hard but make the most out of it, so that you will never have regrets. Take risks,

so you’ll never have to think about the what if’s and what could have been’s. I wish you nothing but good

luck in your future endeavors. Always remember, that I am here. A friend, a sister. And I will always be

proud of you. No matter what. See you when I see you.

Take my favorite quote with you:

“Be fearless in the pursuit of your wildest dreams.”

👤 About the author:

Mae Ermac is from the Philippines. She’s currently in her 2nd-year in college and she’s taking up Economics. Mae enjoys writing, so whenever she’s not busy she makes sure to practice her skills. She also loves sports. She enjoys cycling and playing badminton.Watching Kdramas on Netflix is also one of her hobbies. Mae is very outgoing and she loves nature so much.