Two words that hold a lot of meaning, they have to come with context, emphasis and understanding. It might mean, I am holding it together, but I am not yet ok. It might mean, I am annoyed by your decision, but know it’s yours to make. It might mean, I’m not sure how to tell you, I am not ok, but I need more time to be ready to share. I’m fine. It's the end of the conversation, it blocks follow-up questions or expectations of further discussion. It’s the politest answer to a question you’re tired of being asked. A question that comes from a good place, from a caring place. I am fine. I am still walking up right, still breathing. I am still a functioning human being, but my heart isn’t in it right now. I am fine, but I can’t talk about it. And I will be fine, until I am ok... until I am good.