I know you’ve probably heard stories like this a million times, and I must admit my story isn’t unique or better than anyone else’s, but I still want you to know this because it’s been such an important part of who I am.
Growing up, I didn’t have any siblings or many friends. When I was 13, I was dealing with some things that were really hard for me, like high school and discovering who I am. It was hard when I felt like I didn’t really have anyone to talk to, hang out with, or look up to. I wasn’t a huge music fan and most of my hobbies were writing and playing music, but other than that I didn’t really do much with my spare time to make me happy.
But, when I was 13, I started listening to your music, and I was hooked. It wasn’t just your music that made me happy, it was who you are as a person, as someone I could look up to. There were so many questions and fears and worries I had at that age, but when I listened to your music or watched one of your interviews where you talked about your challenges growing up, it felt like you were talking to me. It felt like I had someone to look up to who wanted the best for me and who had been through something similar. I held this connection with you all throughout high school, and I believe that this was 100% truthfully the only thing that got me through that time. As I walked to class feeling like I didn’t fit in, I would hear you singing about your life, about growing up and dealing with heartbreak and going on adventures and falling in love, and it felt like somehow there was someone out there who felt the same way that I did, and got through it. That gave me so much hope.
Aside from helping me deal with difficult times, you also introduced me to country music - which has been another huge part of my life. Because of you, I dreamed of going to Nashville. Not because I wanted to become a musician, trust me I’m a terrible singer, but because I wanted to see the place where dreams came true, where country music built its roots. I fell in love with music from Brad Paisley, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood, and so many others. It felt like there was a whole new world of music that I had never been exposed to as a kid that was just tugging at my heart and making me hopeful for what could be.Â
Taylor, you also made me believe in love. Before I listened to your songs, I had no idea how precious it was. Because of you, I believe that true love exists and I believe in finding a happily ever after.Â
Finally, Taylor, I want to tell you one more thing. hen I came to university for the first time, I was shy and scared and had never even had my first kiss. I was nervous about meeting new people, especially boys because I felt so unexperienced. Well, on my first day, I met a boy who I have now been dating for almost 3 years. Guess what the one thing we had in common was? We both loved you and your music. No joke. All this time, I had been dreaming of finding someone to love, just like your songs sing about. And I actually met someone who shared the same love for you as I did. Not only that, he loves so many other things that I love - like country music, road trips, junk food, dogs, and going on adventures. I believe that you brought us together, Taylor, and out of everything, I am most thankful for that.
My boyfriend and I will be seeing you in concert for the first time together on August 4th in Toronto, and we absolutely cannot wait! My favorite song is Fearless, and it would mean the world to me if you sang that song!