We live in a world that often measures worth by milestones: owning a home, being in a relationship, having a bustling social life. These things are beautiful, yes — but they are not the only markers of value. And they certainly don’t define a person’s significance. So let me say this loud and clear: Just because I don’t have my own house, or a girlfriend, or friends doesn’t mean I don’t matter. I am not a checklist. I am not a timeline. I am not a comparison. I am a person. A