Emily had just turned 22, and she was feeling a mix of emotions. On the one hand, she was happy to have made it through another year and to be surrounded by friends and family who loved her. On the other hand, she was feeling a sense of uncertainty about the future.
She had just graduated from college and was starting a new job in a few weeks, but she wasn't sure if it was what she really wanted to do. She was also dealing with a recent breakup, which had left her feeling lonely and confused.
That night, Emily's friends surprised her with a party at her favorite bar. The music was loud, the drinks were flowing, and everyone was in high spirits. As they danced and laughed together, Emily felt a sense of happiness and freedom that she hadn't felt in a long time.
She looked around at her friends, all of them around the same age, and realized that they were all going through similar struggles. They were happy to be young and free, but also confused about their place in the world and lonely in their own way.
As Taylor Swift's "22" came on over the speakers, Emily couldn't help but smile. The lyrics perfectly captured the mix of emotions she was feeling, and she sang along with her friends at the top of her lungs.
"Yeah, we're happy, free, confused and lonely at the same time
It's miserable and magical, oh yeah
Tonight's the night when we forget about the deadlines
It's time, oh-oh"
For that one night, they forgot about the deadlines and responsibilities waiting for them in the morning. They were just a group of 20-somethings, enjoying each other's company and the moment they were in.
As the night wore on and the bar began to empty out, Emily's best friend Sarah pulled her aside. "I know you've been going through a tough time lately," Sarah said, "but I want you to know that everything will be alright if you keep me next to you."
Emily hugged her friend tightly, feeling grateful for the support and love she had in her life. She knew that the future was uncertain, but for now, she was happy to be 22 and surrounded by people who cared about her.
As they walked out of the bar and into the cool night air, Emily took a deep breath and smiled. She didn't know what the future held, but she was excited to find out. For tonight, at least, she was happy, free, confused, and a little bit lonely. And that was okay.
"I don't know about you
But I'm feeling 22
Everything will be alright if
You keep me next to you"
{458}