Choose Yourself

Chapter 1 — The Crossroads of Choices

Amir stared out the window of his apartment, a notebook open in front of him, filled with hastily scribbled notes. His life seemed suspended between two worlds: his relationship with Leila, stable but suffocating, and his lifelong dream of becoming an illustrator.

His phone buzzed. It was Leila.
— “Can we talk tonight? I want us to make plans together.”

Amir put down his pen. His eyes wandered over the rain falling on the city. He knew what it meant: putting his dreams aside to please someone. And yet, his heart ached.

Chapter 2 — The Phrase That Changes Everything

That evening, sitting alone, he reread a note he had written to himself:

"If one day you have to choose between a person or your dreams, a person or your passion, a person or your values, choose to choose YOURSELF. You are your dreams, your passions, and your values—not someone else. And a person who truly values you will respect that."

The words echoed within him like a familiar refrain. He realized he had been erasing himself for Leila in recent months, avoiding conflict, trying to be “good enough.” But who was he if he didn’t exist for himself?

Chapter 3 — The Courage to Say No

The next day, Amir invited Leila to the café where they had first met. When she arrived, smiling, his heart raced—but this time, it wasn’t anxiety: it was determination.

— “Leila… I care about you, but I can’t go on like this. I have to choose myself, my dreams, and my values.”
Leila frowned.
— “You mean… you choose your dreams over me?”
Amir shook his head gently.
— “No. I choose to choose myself. I must stay true to my dreams, my passions, and my values. And I deserve someone who respects that, not someone who asks me to disappear.”

Leila left silently. Amir felt the sting of loss, but a huge weight had lifted from his shoulders.

Chapter 4 — Rebirth

In the following weeks, Amir immersed himself in illustration. He started a personal project, met people who shared his vision, and discovered the joy of being true to himself. His days were filled with creativity and inspiration.

A few days later, Leila returned, her eyes reflecting understanding.
— “Amir… I don’t think I understood. I didn’t realize you felt erased lately. Thank you for your words. I want us to talk—really talk—about our dreams and hopes.”

They spoke at length. Leila shared her dream of opening her own shop, Amir spoke of his journey toward becoming an illustrator. Their relationship didn’t weaken; it grew stronger, nurtured by sincerity and mutual respect.

Chapter 5 — Harmony Restored

Months later, Leila opened her boutique, and Amir exhibited his artwork while continuing his career transition. Their dreams became compatible, enriching their daily lives. Then, a little boy came into their world, completing their family.

The mirror reflected Amir’s smile, bright and authentic. He had chosen to respect himself, and that decision had allowed their love to transform and flourish. His smile wasn’t just a reflection of personal happiness—it was the reflection of a life built together, rooted in trust and the pursuit of their passions.