Let Me Feel

Dear Mum and Dad,

When I’m grieving, I wish you knew that telling me to “be strong” makes me feel like I have to hide how much I’m hurting. I know you mean well, but sometimes it makes me feel like there’s something wrong with me for crying or falling apart.

It’s hard when people avoid talking about the friend I lost, like she never existed. I want to remember her. I want to say her name out loud without things getting awkward or quiet.

What helps the most is when you just listen. Without trying to fix me. Just let me feel what I feel, even if it’s messy.

Please be patient. I’m still learning how to live with this.