Doubting

Not smart enough for a good job, not kind enough for a great love, not strong enough for a good life, he looks at his existence through the lens of self-doubt, and it confirms everything.

Around him, his friends radiate success, their lives seemingly flawless. Their confidence is unshakable, their smiles genuine. Standing among them, he feels like dust.

When he tries, there's this voice, his voice, whispering, "They're so far ahead, why even bother?" It's louder than any cheer or encouragement, a relentless reminder of the gap between him and his friends' lives.

But, unbeknownst to him, his friends grapple with intense jealousy. They look at him and see someone to aspire to, a model of success and confidence. In their eyes, he is the epitome of everything they doubt they can ever be.