The end of every cycle makes way for the start of a new one.
Since anniversary posts have started rolling out, I've seen a shared sentiment amongst older fans that Liam's passing is what finally marks the end of One Direction, the end of this community, and the end of something so many people have loved and held on to for so long.
I completely understand that sentiment. But I'd like to offer an alternative one, if I may, that's been bringing some light to a day I know is looking dreary for many.
Liam's passing has rebuilt this fandom in so many ways. From bringing back old fans who'd long-since abandoned the Directioner sphere, to bringing in new fans like myself who'd never heard a lick of what a Directioner was. His passing was not a good thing, but good things could still be made out of the rubble left behind.
And I know, and fully agree, that we'd all trade the fandom and community and music in a heartbeat if it meant bringing Liam back… but since that's not possible, I think it's important to hold onto the things that are possible, the good things that have come to fruition since October 16th 2024.
We had the Zouis reunion. That was such a huge day. And although it's bittersweet that it took a friend passing to bring them back together, it's still alright to celebrate that Louis and Zayn are friends again. Finding those positives in the aftermath of a tragedy is what has kept people going for thousands of years.
The end of every cycle is the start to another. We can't undo the fact that Liam passed away, but we can build a better and tighter community in the wake of it. His death is not the end of this community, nor all of the amazing things One Direction has inspired and created over the past 15 years.
So much music, art, so many friendships, life paths, anything you can think of, can be attributed back to One Direction. They, as a band and community, have changed the lives of millions of people for the better. And although this anniversary is heavy with the weight of loss, it's still important to celebrate all that they've accomplished and all that this community around them has built.
I love all of you in this community. I'm so glad that I get to be here, even if the thing that put 1D on my radar was far from happy, being in this fandom every day brings me joy I would have otherwise missed. I hope everyone here is able to find a small joy in this day, no matter how heavy grief is weighing on your mind.
"Goodbyes are bittersweet, but it's not the end, I'll see your face again."
vaporwave
blakekathryn
jbbartram-illu
areudirty
