I like you.

Before you go on to read the news, last night’s scores, or (heaven forbid) someone else’s blog, stay for a bit.

Yes, I like you.

I’m not talking specifically to my beloved girlfriend, nor the members of my clique, but you, you, you.

You are a good person.

I am still talking to you. Don’t navigate away in disbelief. I do believe in you. You are someone valuable and worthwhile. Without you, the world would not be quite as sweet. You are not inherently evil–quite the opposite. You have in you the beauty that is the human spirit. It is the mysterious beauty of creation and nature, like majestic mountains or amber grain.

You don’t have to like me back.

I say this not to garner your favor, but to inspire. You have so much to offer and the people whose lives you touch can be so blessed.

And I will still like you.

I understand you. You are not always perfect–actually, you are never perfect. That is what is so incredible about life–all of the imperfection. You may do something wrong, but I will understand. You may become great, and I will understand.

Don’t believe me?

Disbelief is a defense mechanism. In the morning of our lives, innocence blooms full. We believe. As adulthood sweeps into us, it becomes easier to disbelieve rather than to be vulnerable.

You don’t have to.

The greatest gift of God is free will. Though some points on the path may be set, you have a choice of taking rough roads, scenic ones, and the point-a to point-b variety. How much better can it get?