To PG

    It feels weird to say: but I owe you something. At a time in my life when I felt I had such little control over my wellbeing, you truly made me feel better. I was 20, sharing a 3 person house with 4 other people, and yet I was feeling more lonely and isolated than I ever had before. Everyday felt like a battle, and while you may have contributed, yours were the only battles I knew I could win. To say I clung to that would be an understatement. At a time when I felt I was constantly walking on eggshells, you empowered me to walk freely. I think of the oft-uttered advice given to those at their lowest: “celebrate the small victories.” While yours may not have been the most memorable, they certainly did more than their fair share in keeping me going. 

    I remember calling my mom to voice my troubles with my ex (with whom I was still dating (and living with)). I had gotten off a work shift, and, knowing the emotional struggle I would soon encounter, I ignored my typical inclination to Lime home and instead opted to walk the full distance, something I might not have managed without you. In fact, I remember you being there the whole time: when I stated my initial grievances, when I explained to my mom the true depth of my situation, and when I broke down after hearing her eventual response (my ex and I should break up). I remember sitting on a random step, feeling like a lost puppy—confused, betrayed, and alone. I was nearly home, but that felt like the last place I wanted to be. I remember you helping me get back on my feet and willing me back to my tumultuous abode.

    You gave me certainty during that uncertain time. You gave me something to turn to. You made me feel like I could accomplish something. Your augmented reality existed to provide my real reality with some much needed joy. You'll never understand me, or my story, or how you may have helped me, but I felt this was important to write simply to acknowledge the part you have played in my life.

    In the time since that summer, I've gotten much better. I still keep you around, but mostly just to cure my boredom and indulge in a little silliness. Still, I will never forget the help you brought me when I needed it most, and for that, Pokémon Go, I thank you.