12 Comments
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Mary B's avatar

To your younger, present, and future self you have so much to be proud of! <3

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Becky Adae's avatar

Part 1 brought tears to my eyes. Bravo!

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Alexa Chavez's avatar

Your writing is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing :)

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Annika Berlin's avatar

Thank you for reading, Alexa! It means so much to me :)

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James's avatar

This one really resonates. That feeling of shame and failure telling you that you're just... not enough to be invited and wanted. Hiding to protect yourself but only succeeding in isolating yourself. Hits close to home. I hope it helps someone who needs to hear it like your younger self did.

Thanks for sharing this Anni, glad you're writing again =)

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Bob Stevens's avatar

Thank you for writing this. So brave, tender and inspiring

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Lisa's avatar

Wise, wise woman you have become, Annika! Thank you for sharing these beautiful words and also, part of your journey…(it reminded me of when I missed my own h.s. prom, and I felt isolated, and shame for very different reasons)..It’s a wonderful thing to look back and be able to reframe memories with an older and more informed perspective. I love the photo of you drawing at the table😊.

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Annika Berlin's avatar

Thank you for sharing, Lisa & for continuing to support me after so many years! Art class with you offered so much solace for me during that time. Hope you are well! :)

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Everett Muse's avatar

Thoughtful and intelligent retrospective. I met you a couple of years ago and have been following your progress. Keep up the great work.

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Annika Berlin's avatar

I remember! Thank you so much for reading & continuing to support. It means so much to me.

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Declan Hastings's avatar

So excited for part two!

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Elizabeth Lees's avatar

This is beautiful.

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