Some of you who have followed my account from the beginning, glanced at my reading list or even read "Something Great" may have realized that I was not just a big fan of MJ but also a fan of One Direction. It was probably embarrassing to admit at that time, but I stanned them hard in my late teen years and used this account to read fics about them and also interact with other 1D fans. Being a fan of 1D was some of the most exciting times of my teen years but after they went on "hiatus" and I became preoccupied with adult responsibilities, the band became a distant and fond memory. A week has passed and I am still trying to process the death of Liam. This celebrity death has hit me harder than others simply because I experienced the band's peak in real-time and their music had been such a source of joy that's still a tangible feeling at 28 years old. It can feel weird to experience grief for someone you never knew who also brought you so much happiness during a pivotal period of your life. Fame is a complex position that some of us may never experience and it's heartbreaking to think how someone can be so miserable while making people across the globe happy. When you're 18 years old and in love with a boyband, you can never fathom them breaking up, let alone the idea that one of them will tragically die far too young. You can never imagine that those carefree days will one day be attached to bittersweet memories. Every generation experiences the loss of an idol but it doesn't make it any less difficult for passionate fans. It's probably been years since many of us have thought of the band- we're now adults with jobs, bills to pay, S.Os, kids ect- but I just wanted to check in on anyone whose inner teenager is in mourning right now. It's perfectly normal, don't let anyone tell you it's wrong or parasocial.
My thoughts are with Liam's family, friends, his son Bear, and his brothers- Louis, Niall, Zayn and Harry. R.I.P Liam. I hope you can finally find peace❤️