Hi, I'm Maya, and I'm addicted... to words.

"We love you, Maya!" I can almost hear you saying, like in a support group meeting. Thank you, really. At the end of the day, we're all searching for the same thing, aren't we? Connection, understanding, and maybe a little (a lot) of appreciation.

For as long as I can remember, I've been thirsty for kind words, for a smile of recognition. Maybe it started when my dad asked, "Where are the other three points?" on a 97 test score. Since then, I've been searching for words that quench this thirst, that leave a good taste in my mouth and give me the energy to keep going. Like... a good cup of coffee.

Speaking of coffee, I spent years as a barista. I wandered between cafes around the world, serving delightful cups of liquid energy. I felt like I was a small part of every person's success who walked through the door, even if just with a quick smile or a warm "good morning." I wondered if they truly saw me, or if I was just "the coffee girl" in their eyes.

Then, at 30, I realized – there's another way to influence, to touch, to connect. Through my words.

I started writing about my journeys, experiences, and the small moments that make up entire lives. And suddenly, like good coffee, I couldn't stop. Two years of daily Facebook posts turned into my own Substack page, a place where I could be my most authentic self.

Along the way, I received encouragement from people I'd never met, who connected with my words, who joined my virtual journey. Even Facebook's algorithm decided to award me the title "Digital Creator" and the ability to receive stars that convert to cents (not that I've earned more than a dollar since, but hey, it's the thought that counts).

This both scares and excites me. Truth is, this page has existed for months, and I never dared to publish it. Because why would anyone pay for my writing at all?

But something changed recently.

I looked back and saw how far I've come. Suddenly, I realized – I'm no longer just someone who writes an internet diary. I've built an empire of words, created a world.

Now, I understand that I am good enough (after endless self-criticism, recognizing that I'm good enough is like climbing Everest for me), and I know I deserve a tip.

If there's anything I learned from working in hospitality, it's that people don't pay for the cocktail or the coffee cup – they pay for the experience. And that's exactly what I deliver through my stories.

So now I need you. Not for a perfect score, but as partners in this journey. Any support – no matter how small – is confirmation that I'm on the right path.

It's not just about money. It's knowing that my words touch people, that they might change something small in someone's world. Every bit of support from you is like a warm cup of coffee on a cold day – it warms the heart.

Today I'm finally saying it out loud – I believe in the value of my creation. No, I don't expect to swim in dollars, but I'm going through a process of growth and self-recognition. And for me, that's worth more than any cent.

So if my words once made you smile, think, or understand something about yourself – I'd be happy if you bought me a coffee. It will help me continue to discover new places and bring them to you through my words.

In the end, we're all on this journey together. And how wonderful it is that we met here, in this little corner of the internet, not by accident.

Thank you for being part of my story.