avatarMatthew Maniaci

Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of embracing comfort and personal joys during challenging times without judgment.

Abstract

In a world currently fraught with political strife, environmental crises, and the ongoing pandemic, the author of this article advocates for the acceptance of individual comfort measures. They argue that with the world in turmoil, it's crucial to find solace in personal pleasures, whether it's enjoying seasonal decorations, cuddling with a stuffed animal, or indulging in favorite foods and entertainment. The author stresses that these comforts, which vary from person to person, are vital for mental well-being and should be respected as harmless coping mechanisms. The article encourages a supportive community where people can find comfort in their chosen activities without facing criticism, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in a time when everyone is seeking a sense of normalcy and relief from stress.

Opinions

  • The author believes that everyone is entitled to their sources of comfort, especially during difficult times, and that these should not be judged or criticized.
  • It is suggested that comfort can be found in a variety of forms, from seasonal traditions to hobbies and media consumption, and these preferences are personal and valid.
  • The article posits that the world is facing multiple crises, making it more important than ever to allow oneself and others to seek happiness and distraction in small, harmless ways.
  • The author expresses a personal connection to their comfort items, such as a stuffed panda and a weighted blanket, and emphasizes that these items provide genuine emotional support.
  • There is a call for mutual understanding and tolerance among people, advocating for a live-and-let-live approach when it comes to personal choices that bring joy or comfort.
  • The author promotes their publication, "Thing a Day," as a platform where they explore a range of topics, indicating a commitment to varied interests and the belief that diversity in interests should be celebrated.

Everyone Needs Comfort Right Now

Let’s not judge them for it.

Photo by Kaylyn Mok on Unsplash

I’ve talked about fluffy things. I’ve talked about not judging people for liking things. Let’s mash the two together and make them relevant to current events.

In case anyone hasn’t noticed, the world is a bit hellish right now. American politics are horrific, the world is on fire, and oh yeah, the pandemic has been going on for over a year and is getting worse. Everyone is stressed out right now, and we are all grasping for some semblance of normalcy.

Things aren’t normal right now. Any rando on the street could infect you with a deadly virus, and even if you’re vaccinated, there’s no guarantee you won’t carry it to someone who isn’t. Things are scary outside, and the nightly news doesn’t do us any favors.

So, many of us reach for our comfort things. Whether it’s the pumpkin spice lattes, B movies, or a terrible ebook from the Omegaverse, we all need those fluffy things to keep us going. And, I don’t think it’s too much to ask for to just let everyone have those things.

Our Halloween decorations from last year are still out, and will likely make it well beyond this year’s Halloween. It makes my partner happy, so I’m not going to tell her to take them down. She hasn’t always had the best life, so letting her have something small that isn’t hurting anyone doesn’t cost me anything.

I sleep with a stuffed panda and a weighted blanket. My partner is the one who gave me the panda, and he has been my cuddle buddy for over eight years. I’ve been known to borrow my partner’s giant overstuffed octopus plushie when I need something big to cuddle. I have no shame about this. They give me comfort and help me feel better when I’m down.

We all have things we need to help us feel better about life. Whether it’s a hobby, food, or comfort item, whatever helps you get through your days is fine by me (as long as it’s not hurting anyone, of course).

Honestly, I feel like we should all just be understanding towards each other when it comes to this kind of stuff. I won’t criticize your Christmas stuff if you let me have my Halloween stuff. You’re welcome to all the mint mochas you want, I’ll just enjoy my hot apple cider. I’ll watch Toradora, you can watch The Room. I’ll play D&D, you can play CoD. No judgment here.

Guys, it costs zero dollars and takes no energy to just let people have their comfort items. Everything is terrible in the world right now, and we all deserve a little comfort. I think we can all manage that.

If you liked this, please subscribe to my publication, Thing a Day. I publish something every day on a variety of topics, so you never know what you’re going to see!

Here are some other things I’ve written:

Life
Covid-19
Mental Health
Comfort
Relaxation
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