aahhhh
I love my s/o so much.... they just... they respect me. So, so very much. They always ask what is okay, and though to other people that may seem over excessive?? to me? It's not. It's perfect.
I have problems with physical contact- I know that. But a lot of people just.... don't. And they never will.
But them?? They always ask, and they always respect, and they are so careful not to step over the lines Ive burned into the sand. They don't wait, or watch, they ask. Im used to people observing me for what's okay, but they just ask me what I'm okay with- and thats a big difference.
Just today, they asked if I was okay with something new, and I... I always get a little overwhelmed when they ask. Just asking is new. No one asks. No one used to even watch. They just ignored, and it hurt.
Now? it's so much better. My friends know, and they acknowledge. Its not just another random fact to be swept under the rug- its something to considered in every interaction.
One day when i was sad, two of my friends randomly did a very awkward looking pose in front of me. I got really confused, and they explained that they were trying to hug me. Without touching me. I almost cried.
Another friend of mine is... a very touchy-feely type. She hugs everyone- clings to them, really- But she apologizes every time she moves towards me, when she remembers how she shouldn't do that to me. She remembers, even when being touchy is just what she does, and whats she's used to.
One of my friends asked constant questions, and tried different things, and found a way around it. He still high fives me, and hands me items, and can still fix my hair if its messy and i wouldn't be bothered- because he takes care not to directly touch my skin. That takes effort, to remember, and to fix.
They know, and they care. They try their best, even if they mess up sometimes... and that's more than anyone in the past ever bothered to do. I love these people, who i met here at this place. (even if ill never tell them bc thats really sappy of me.)
Sorry for the rambles, its really unbecoming of me. but they won't see this, here.