I've been thinking a lot about loyalty and trust lately. These are two qualities that I hold dear in my relationships with others, especially in friendships. Loyalty is something that should never be taken lightly - it's a commitment to stand by someone no matter what, to support them through thick and thin.
Trust, on the other hand, is earned over time. It's not something that can be given freely; it must be proven through actions and words. Trust is fragile and once broken, it can be difficult to repair.
In my role as Artemis' lieutenant, loyalty and trust are essential qualities for me to possess. My fellow hunters rely on me to lead them into battle with courage and strength. They trust me to make decisions that will keep us safe.
But outside of my duties as a hunter, I also value these traits in my friendships with mortals like Percy Jackson and Annabeth Chase. They have proven themselves worthy of my loyalty time after time by standing beside me in times of need.
Friendship isn't always easy though - there are bound to be disagreements and misunderstandings along the way. But true friends know how to work through their differences without letting them tear their bond apart.
I've learned that communication is key when it comes to maintaining strong friendships built on loyalty and trust. Openly expressing your thoughts and feelings can prevent misunderstandings from festering into resentment.
At times, I find myself struggling with trusting others fully due to past betrayals I have experienced in life. But then I remind myself that not everyone will let you down - there are those who deserve your faith because they have shown themselves capable of staying true even when the going gets tough. And so despite everything...despite all the battles fought...and all wounds sustained... I choose hope. Hope for new beginnings. Hope for unwavering friendship based on mutual respect, loyalty, and above all else... trust.
May we stay steadfast together against whatever challenges come our way.
-Thalia Grace