If we preach one thing at Too Damn Young it’s the idea that you never know who else is dealing with a loss. This mystery stems from a lot of reasons — (1) the conversations is viewed as too awkward, so no one talks about it (2) it’s such a personal journey you end up wanting to keep it close to your chest.
But, there’s something incredibly special with being let in on someone else’s loss. Suddenly there are now two sets of shoulders to help carry the weight. The more people you share this fact with, the less others feel lonely.
Instagram is a meeting place for incredible #OOTDs and too many pictures of food and sunsets; it’s also a great place to see the BTS look of people’s lives.
Naty Michele (or NatyBaby, as she is known on Instagram) is a fashion blogger and overall great storyteller. (Seriously, look at her Instagram!)
A few weeks ago I came across an Instagram picture she shared commemorating the 4 year anniversary of her dad’s death. She’s letting us share the picture and caption below. I was moved to email her about it because here’s someone who you wouldn’t have thought was living with such a heavy loss, if she hadn’t been willing to share it. In the comments of the picture you’ll see how many of her 60k followers can relate to this part of her life, the same way they relate to her fashionable outfits.
Here’s her Instagram picture and caption:
” Four years ago today my world came crashing down and I’ve been trying to put the pieces back together ever since. Losing my father was like losing a part of me.
It’s a void that may never be completely filled.
For a very long time I was in a dark place and it took me awhile to get back into the light. When you reach your breaking point you have to dig deep within yourself and in that moment of weakness you will find strength. I still struggle with this even though so much time has passed by. I don’t always have it all together. My life is no where near perfect and sometimes, I break too. But my biggest source of inspiration and motivation comes from my father and that’s what fuels me every single day to do what makes me happy and to chase my dreams. Today, I celebrate your life dad and the amazing legacy you left behind. Thank you for showing me that I can do anything I put my mind to and thank you for pushing me to be a better person. I am me because of you. Forever changed and forever grateful for all you have given me. I love you and miss you with every inch of my heart and soul. In honor of my father’s anniversary, there’s a very personal message on the blog today. I hope you take the time to read it. #myangel “
Image: @NatyBaby’s Twitter
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