Flavio & Fabiana

Photo provided by Flavio & Fabiana

If you’re reading this, I want you to know that you are not alone.

Dear Friend,

If you are reading this letter, I want you to know that you are not alone.

I may not know your story, but I do know this: you are worthy of love, of kindness, of being seen and heard. And whatever weight you are carrying, you do not have to carry it by yourself.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in life is that the people who truly love us don’t judge us when we struggle. They don’t measure our worth by how strong we appear on the outside.

Instead, they meet us where we are, with open hands and open hearts. They remind us of who we are when we forget. They help us find our balance when the world feels unsteady.

And so, if things feel heavy right now, I ask you to do one thing: trust someone who loves you. Let them in. Let them sit with you in the hard moments. Let them remind you that there is more to your story than this chapter.

You are valued. You are needed. And even if you can’t see it right now, there is hope ahead. So hold on, and let those who love you help light the way.

With all my heart,

Flavio C. & Fabiana S., Rice University

Wiess Magisters

Connect With Us

This letter series features reflections by students, faculty, and associates at Rice University. Their bravery in sharing their personal stories about connection, struggles, growth, and mental health remind us that behind every face is a story, and that no one is alone in what they’re feeling. This series and space exists to share real experiences from our community, and foster deeper conversations around mental health on campus. If you’re reading this, we hope you feel seen, supported, and a little more hopeful.

Letter series coordinated by Katherine Sammy. To get invovled with IfYoureReadingThis at Rice University, email kss11@rice.edu.