Thank you, Taylor

I’m flying to NJ to see Taylor Swift perform with on July 11 and I feel like it’s the right time to share this note I sent to TS. It aligns perfectly with why I started this blog 4 years ago, so I feel that if my fangirl note were to ever make its way online, this should be the place it lives.

Anyone who knows me personally can attest to my sentiments below – my admiration for Ms. Swift goes well beyond her lyrics. She is a great example of being a strong leader - a powerful and thoughtful force who is still so vulnerable. It’s the type of emotional intelligence that I really admire and try to master in my own career.

If anything, I hope this note inspires you to think about the influences in your life - near and far - and give them a shout out. I really believe If you’re the smartest person in a room you are in the wrong room - keep finding people who inspire you to be the happiest and strongest you can be.

**This was sent as a handwritten letter.



__________

taylorswift,

This is a thank you from a friend you’ve never met. I love your music, but that’s not why you’ve changed my life. Let me explain.

I bought my first album on iTunes (in my parent’s basement on dial-up internet) after just one listen of “Tim McGraw”. I put 3 songs on my annual Christmas CD for my friends, declaring this new artist as “a talented little fireball who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind.” I was so excited to share you with my little world. I resonated with your brave soul.

Since then, your words have carried me through happiness and sadness. Singing (screaming) “Mean” helped me cope with the harsh reality that mean people will exist throughout adulthood. Dancing to “Shake it Off” with my fiance until I’m out of breath reminds me our happiest moments together in our 8 year love story. I’ve been trying to help you as well – attending every Chicago concert, buying every album (1989 twice!) because supporting you is the best way I can show my gratitude…

But it’s not your music that I’m most grateful for, not even close.

Taylor – thank you for being unapologetically yourself. It’s speaks so much louder than any words can. There is no greater message you could share with this world. You’ve inspired me to find and own my confidence and identity in this life. I am always chasing my own dreams, hustling harder, thanking my supporters and paying it forward when I can. I look at you and want to best I can be in my life. You’re my friend and mentor, and I will always feel an unwavering loyalty to you for that reason.

I want you to know wherever you are, you will always have a friend in Chicago, supporting your happiest moments and comforting you in your darkest. Thank you for being you. 25 has already been a hell of a year for the both of us, and I know the best is yet to come.

Your friend,

Natalie

(August 30, 1989)