Don't Be Afraid to Remember Me

When I’m gone, don’t be afraid to say my name out loud.

Don’t hesitate to tell the stories, even the funny ones I might pretend to be embarrassed by.

Especially those.

Don’t fear the photos.

Let them fall out of drawers, be framed on your shelves, pop up on your phone when you least expect it.

Let them remind you that I was here. That I lived and I loved and I mattered.

Listen to my voicemails— yes, even the ones where I sound rushed or silly.

Let my voice be a comfort, not a trigger.

Let it remind you that I once called just to say, “I love you,” and I meant it every time.

Don’t avoid the places we went together.

Go back.

Order my favorite drink.

Laugh if you cry. Cry if you laugh.

Both are okay.

Please don’t shut out the memories.

Let them breathe.

Let them visit you like gentle whispers reminding you I’m not entirely gone.

Not really.

Let the memories keep me close.

Not to hold you back— but to remind you how deeply you were loved.