Chapter 9 : True Home Comfort

I’ve spent a lot of time lately thinking about why I feel so much safer inside my own room than anywhere else. For the longest time, I felt like I didn't fit in with "humans." It seemed like people were always judging me, calling me an overthinker, or only sticking around when I was "useful" to them. It’s a heavy feeling to think you're only valued for what you can do, rather than who you are.

But then I look at my cutie teddy.

He’s a little chimpy wearing his favorite hoodie, and he is the absolute definition of unconditional love. He doesn’t need me to be "useful." He doesn't judge me when my thoughts start racing. He’s just there—loyal, quiet, and incredibly cute. When people call me "mad" for playing with him or being obsessed with him, I just realize they don't understand the peace he brings. At home, I don't have to pretend. I can just be me.

However, I’ve also realized something important: not all humans are the same.

While some have made me feel like a burden, I have a few friends who have proven me wrong. Even when I’m at my lowest and I tell them, "I feel like a burden," they don't leave. They don't agree with me. Instead, they listen. They try their very best to make me smile and remind me that I matter.

It’s a beautiful balance. I have my real-life friends who do the hard work of supporting me, and I have my cutie teddy who provides a silent sanctuary at the end of the day. Between the humans who truly care and my loyal little chimpy in his hoodie, I’m starting to feel like I don’t have to carry everything all by myself.