Hello, Readers!
I’ve posted this message more in-depth in the latest update of “I’m Okay” but hoped for as many people to be able to see this!
I want to thank you all for the support you have shown for me and for my book, “I'm Okay” and say that I am so sorry for my years-long hiatus.
I wanted to post a message here to address something that has been on my mind throughout all these years. When I started I'm Okay, I was going through a very dark few years of my life and the book was an unhealthy coping mechanism to escape from my own mind. However, this manifested itself into a story that, as I look back at and reread now, I realize grossly romanticizes mental illness.
I have been at a crossroads for what to do for some time, now. Mental illness of any sort is not pretty and I do not want to contribute to the misconception that it is a "quirky" personality trait or something that is fun and relatable. Should I take down the story completely or finish the plot and character arcs to further expand on their (lifestyle, mental health, relationship, and self esteem) improvements? I would love to hear your thoughts!
I truly hope to improve as an author and as a person, being more aware of what I'm writing and sharing publicly and trying to remain conscious of its affect on others.
From the bottom of my heart, I wish you all the best and hope that you all take care of yourself and your loved ones, especially during this pandemic and the changes it has wrought.
Sending you all love, support, and better days. Remember, it's okay not to be okay. Please be gentle to yourself and to those around you. <3 love you all.
Warmest of hugs,
Lily Winter
