A Safety Net
We’re taught early on that a safety net is about tangible things: a savings account with enough to cover six months of expenses, a house that appreciates in value, or a stable career with a 401(k) and benefits.
Society drills this into us
parents urge us to “get a good job,”
financial advisors preach emergency funds,
and social media depicts wealth as security.
I bought into this for years without much scrutiny or a second thought.
Until recently
When I realized that a safety net for me is the emotional and psychological safety that good, sincere relationships provide.
The safety of supportive relationships.
The safety of love and acceptance without strings attached.
The safety of being myself, speaking my mind, sharing my wild thoughts or feelings.
The safety of opening up without fearing of ridicule or rejection.
The older I get, the more I need, appreciate, and cherish those emotional safety nets.
But I also realize how scarce they are to find, hold onto, or maintain.
In a world that’s always rushing—where we’re juggling work, notifications, and endless to-do lists—building deep, authentic connections feels like a luxury.
I’m often too guarded, too busy, or too afraid of vulnerability to let others in fully.
And maintaining those bonds? That takes effort, time, and sometimes the courage to have hard conversations or forgive imperfections.
I’ve learned that an emotional safety net isn’t just given; it’s built through small acts of trust, listening, and showing up when it matters.
When I have those relationships, as rare as they could be, I feel anchored, like I can face life’s storms without being swept away. When they’re missing, the loneliness can feel heavier than any financial strain.
As I get older, I’m trying to search for connections.
I’m learning to reach out, to be honest even when it’s scary, and to cherish the people who make me feel safe to be me.
Maybe that’s the real safety net I’ve always needed.