On my first lonely night in a new city, I boiled water for tea and sank into my couch. Grief over leaving home settled like a fog. My hands found the plushie with the floppy scarf on my coffee table. Holding her felt like a quiet hug, enough to remind me that I was allowed to feel homesick, but not trapped by it. I journaled my first honest entry and drifted off, hopeful for morning.

Sometimes, the simplest moments hold the deepest wisdom. Let your thoughts settle, and clarity will find you.

The next day, I walked through unfamiliar streets with more courage. I stopped for another cup of tea at a tiny café, Daisy peeking from my jacket pocket as I sketched out a plan to meet new people. That soft start gave me the gentle push I needed to find my own place here.