Itās really difficult to explain and talk about how something that causes you so much love, pride, and excitement, can also be the cause of a lot of negative emotions as well. Lately, my parents have had an extremely hard time understanding, relating, and having patience with me and support and love for Taylor. Since my problems with my mental health began, I truly started to look towards Taylor and her music for an escape and safe place. Itās familiar, healthy, comforting, and I genuinely love it. But, my parents donāt understand this. They, including my friends, siblings, and random elder ladies from church, donāt understand nor try to. I have been yelled at, shamed, made fun of, teased, and been told to grow up. Today at the last day of our church retreat, I was discussing with my mom a plan to go into the city tomorrow so I can visit the pop up shop. It was then revealed that we probably wouldnāt make it, although she had formerly promised we would. Angry and extremely sad, I turned around looking defeated and went to sit on the couch. Sitting in the chair next to me and watching the whole thing, a lady said, quite loudly, āGenevieve why on Earth do you love Taylor Swift so much?ā In that moment I didnāt know what to say. I had been asked this question many times before, but always given the same reply: ābeautiful music, great lyrics, amazing role model and etc.ā But in that moment, after going through an especially hard days of being teased, I didnāt have the energy to give my typical answer. What I wanted say was how she was the only person there for me when I was walking through my own personal hell. Even problems I told no one about, Taylor helped me with. The only constant in my life as a military child is @taylorswift . The only constant friend Iāve had throughout eleven moves is Taylor Swift. The woman who carries her height so gracefully and beautifully is the one I look to when I hate my height (Iām 5ā10). Taylor is the person who taught me to journal. The first songs I learned on piano are Taylor Swift classics. Taylor is such a part of my childhood and who I am now; I grew up with Taylor by my side.
Taylor Swift inspires, encourages, relates, and loves me like all her fans. I have doubt that she knows I exist. I have no doubt that if I need a song to make me love myself, I can find it. My goodness, Taylor has a song about eating disorders. Anything I encounter in life, I can go to my best friend for advice and help. I intend to support her the same way she supports me. Now, why I love Taylor Swift is not a lady from church or my parents business. Why I love Taylor Swift isnāt even a question I fully know how to answer. But, I do love Taylor with all my heart. It is extremely hard sometimes, being a high schooler, and loving someone who doesnāt do drugs or isnāt the ācoolestā person out. Itās difficult to go through teasing from those you are closest with. Itās not always easy being a Swiftie. But, one day when I have a picture of me hugging Taylor Swift and her saying my name, I know it will all be worth it.
