I’m so excited to announce that I’ve partnered with Splendid for the #SpreadSoftness campaign, and in honor of that, I wanted to share something personal. It’s not something I talk about often, but I lost my mom when I was 15 years old to pancreatic cancer. I remember feeling like I was the only one going through something so significant, however as I got older, I came to find out that almost everyone is going through or has gone through something terrible. I’m not the only one who lost a parent at a young age, and am certainly not the only person who dealt with something tragic at one point or another. Looking back on it, all I can say is this: I’m better because of it, I’m stronger because of it, and I truly do believe that everything happens for a reason. It doesn’t make it easy or fun, but I do believe that things work themselves out.
If you told me ten years ago what I would be doing today, I would have never believed it, but as I sit here writing this post, I can say that I’m truly happy, and I feel lucky to be surrounded by people who I love and care about.
My mom worked in the family sunglass business, Style Eyes, for 15 years until they sold it in 1992, and some of my fondest memories are of her telling me stories about the sunglass trade shows she used to go to with my grandfather and uncle. One of my most prized possessions is her gold sunglass pendant necklace, which is where my affinity for all things eyeglasses stems from. Hence, this Splendid glasses print T-shirt is my absolute favorite!
My mother’s passion for the family business and ability to make others feel good inspired me to start my own business to help others present the best version of themselves, so when it came to choosing a name, I looked to Style Eyes for inspiration. I wanted to choose a name that gave a nod to the family business, but still made sense for what I’m doing, thus Write Styles was born. It took a long time to figure it out, but once I said it aloud, I knew that my business could have no other name.
The point of this post isn’t to make anyone feel bad, or to share a sob story. The reason I’m sharing this is because I want to show people that we all have our own battles, and that whatever you’re going through, you’re not alone. It’s a long road, but it will get better, and you will be okay. I know my mom was worried and afraid to leave me, and if I could tell her one thing, it would be that I’m okay, and I’m happy. I made it through the rough times, and I’m a better person because of it.
My mom always taught me to show people that you care. Send a thank you note, give someone a compliment, or simply tell someone how you appreciate them. You never know what someone’s going through, so spread a little softness and hopefully you’ll make a difference.
You are a dream come true! Your mother is smiling a smile that spans the constellations. I am so proud of you, and all you have accomplished.
Keep it going ,girl!! I love you.