I grew up learning how to be independent.
I learned how to carry my own things, solve my own problems, and figure things out without always asking for help.
I became so used to saying, “I can handle it,”that sometimes I forget I’m allowed to say, “I need you.”
- I became the person who people could rely on.
The person who always found a way.
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The person who learned to keep going, even when no one noticed how tired she was.
And maybe that’s why “Matilda” feels so personal.
Because sometimes, growing up means realizing that the people who were supposed to make you feel safe didn’t always know how to.
So you learn to become your own safe place.
You learn to choose yourself.
You learn to create the kind of life you always wished you had.
You learn that family isn’t only about where you came from, but also about the people who make you feel like you belong.
I’m proud of the independence I learned.
But I hope I never confuse being independent with having to do everything alone.
Because even the girl who learned how to take care of herself deserves to be cared for, too.
