Dear Aunty,
I remember when you held me as a child, I could feel the maternal warmth radiating from me as you cradled me like your own. You used to tell me that I was one of the two people you loved most in the world-the other being my cousin- and how you made me feel wanted and loved. I grew up in a carwreck of a childhood, abandoned by my mother and abused by my fathers wife, the stepmum. You tried to help me escape but then my dad turned against you and his family, because that woman poisoned him against the people that mattered the most. You never gave up on me though, no matter what they said or did you would be the first person to look out for me and love me like your own daughter. I grew up loathing who I was and was never proud of what I had become , at least not at first. I was taught to not appreciate the girl who looked back at me in the mirror and when I saw my parents in my own reflection I cringed. Not because I didn’t love them, I did, but because it was a reminder of a past too painful to acknowledge. I was six years old when I was abused, an age where I should have been playing with dolls and seeing the world through rose tinted glasses. Not an age where I would be too frightened to go home, where the only place I would feel safe was at school, away from the abuse. Even though I could not see you often, I could feel your calming presence during the most moments.
When she raised a hand to threaten me, when she cussed and called me names, your voice would be there telling me to be strong and get through the abuse. She used to tell me that noone loved me, that I was ugly and call me all the names under the sun. When people used to tell me I was beautiful, when guys told me that they loved me, I never believed them. Even to this day, the concept of love is foreign but the one person that I trust with all my heart is you, my aunty. Because when you tell me I am beautiful I know you believe it and when you say how proud of me you are, it is your words that mean the most to me. Growing up you know I lashed out at the people I loved, I was foolish and afraid, I didn’t know how to love again. My parents, they broke my heart and when they broke my heart I grew paranoid and suspicious. You have always been the one person that I could count on and I am proud to call you my mother. You know that even when I went to care aged 10, social services found my biological mother but since then she has been an erratic presence. Over the years my mum did some bad things and I know I did too, but the one person who never left my side was you.
You are strong and brave, when you were diagnosed with my cancer I couldn’t breathe. In that moment I felt like my whole world was gone and I felt like time was like sand, slipping through my fingers. The one person I loved the most, battling an illness that could change everything. I wasn’t prepared to lose you, not a chance but honestly I wish I had been with you more during the diagnosis, I wish I could have held your hand and promised to be there waiting on the other side. But you did it, you never gave up fighting and you survived. It broke me to see how you had become a shell of your former self, but still you were alive and I thanked the heavens that you were still here. It sounds selfish almost, wishing that you could make it even though I knew, could see how much pain you were in but I didn’t want to lose you, I knew that now was not your time. I remember you telling me, a year later after you had been given the all clear that you were prepared to die, that if it was your destiny, you would be sad but you would welcome it with open arms. When others see death and run, you welcome it with open arms, know that it is just a chapter in life- that is true bravery.
You survived two broken relationships and taught me that it is okay to be single and when others looked at me, expecting me to enter another doomed relationship, I would quote you, who had been single for twenty years and was just ‘fine’ with it. You showed me how to be an independent woman and challenged the notion that success is accredited through ‘who you know’. Instead you were the one who gave me the drive and passion to succeed and never once unlike others did you question my ambitions, did you judge success through how ‘much money I would be making. You raised my cousin as a single woman and you went through hell and back, even before he was born. It is not my story to tell but I admire how you didn’t let your past define you, you said we have to look ahead and to the future. In some ways being able to be open with my past is something I learnt from you and you are the one person who I know will tell me the ‘truth’ even if I don’t want to hear it.
As a child I was bullied and gradually overtime the side effects of the abusive childhood and teenage years had a toll on my mental health. I was afraid to acknowledge it at first, hell I didn’t even realize how bad it was until I came to uni and when I told you, you didn’t understand at first. I found it hard to tell you how I was feeling because you would tell me ‘to stop being negative’. I thought you weren’t listening but then I saw you were teaching me the biggest life lesson at all. It was not that you didn’t want to acknowledge that I had depression and anxiety but it was more that you were teaching me to appreciate what was there right in front of me. Like you said ‘ some people have had a better life than you and others have had worse. At the end of the day there is always going to be someone ‘worse off’ than you, so instead of feeling sorry for yourself be grateful for what you do have. Before it is taken from you and it’s too late. When you got sick and needed treatment, you told me that you were going through depression too but then you found something-and I quote ‘amazing’ and that was your faith. You became a born again ‘Christian’ and tried teaching me to be more open to religion. Of course it will make you laugh reading this, because every time you even mentioned it I would roll my ‘eyes’ and say that I am not religious but I saw how happy it made you and that was all that mattered.
We might not agree on everything all the time, we might argue and get frustrated with each other but I want you to know this. I don’t need a guy to make me happy, I don’t need cards and gifts to tell me I am special. Because I have you, my aunty who tells me I am special everyday and that is the greatest love of all.
Do You Have Someone Who You See As An ‘Alternative Valentine’ Too?
P.S My Aunty is camera shy, I wish I had photos I could use to show you how beautiful this woman really is!
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What a lovely letter. It is so lovely that despite difficult times you had a “mum” figure who was genuinely there for you and still is. It just shows there is love all around x
This is such a powerful post.
I too had someone very close to me diagnosed with cancer and I know the feeling. Absolutely devastating. Your aunt sounds like a bloody legend, what an amazing woman!
Such a lovely letter.you must be very proud of your aunt 🙂
Your aunty sounds like a very thoughtful and brave lady. There are very few people who are sincere to others and the ones who are strong enough to face the fears that enter their life.
Wow that was just beautiful to read. Your auntie was your source of conditional love and that is amazing! And it sounds like she’s someone who doesn’t tell you what you want to hear but what you often need to hear.
Such a beautiful letter to share so publicly!
No one should have to go through a childhood like that Ana. Your aunty sounds like an amazing person, she sounds like she has done the job of your mum and accepts you for who you are. I hope she is ok.
Aww, this brought a tear to my eye!
I love your shirt 🙂
Valentine’s Day is my mums birthday so I’ve always celebrated it with her. I guess she is my valentine, haha.
Wow What an amazing post! Just goes to show how much you Mum can mean to you!
She is my aunty but see her as my mum, thank you very much xx
Your Aunt sounds like a magnificent lady, someone strong there for you. I lost my Dad to Cancer it’s such a devasting illness for all. Such a powerful letter and beautiful pictures as always x
What a beautiful post. I am so glad you had one person you could rely on during your troubling times and it’s amazing to hear that she’s been given the all clear x
Aww what a lovely post and what a lovely Auntie too xx
A beautiful letter and so touching. It is horrible when an adult takes advantage but there are also good hearted people out there in the world. She was placed in your life for a reason.
You had to endure so much growing up and I am so happy to hear that you had someone in your life to love you unconditionally like your aunt did.
A very powerful post! This just shows that Valentine’s isn’t just for couples, but to show love to everyone.
beautiful letter to your aunt and yes, valentines isn’t just for significant others but those that have meant a lot to use through good and bad times. you are very lucky to have someone like her in your life.
Such a lovely heart felt letter. I’m sorry to hear your childhood was so awful but I’m so glad you had your aunt. I don’t know who would be my alternativae Valentine’s x
This letter is wonderful. I am sorry that you had a childhood like that, but I am also glad you had an aunt like this. She sounds like an amazing person.
I have my Valentine – no alternative. He’s the one. Stinkin’ adore him. I do not take him for granted, that’s for sure!
This is beautiful, not going to lie made me tear a little, cancer is an awful thing and your aunty is so brave to have such a positive outlook despite the outcome. When reading this I suppose I relate it to my dad who also had cancer so I pick him for my ‘alternative valentine’ 🙂 What an inspiration!
Your auntie sounds like such an incredible role model! I’m so glad you had someone like her to stick by you throughout everything that happened in your childhood.
I ADORE this. It’s so lovely to celebrate the different types of love, especially around Valentine’s day! H x
What a beautiful and honest letter, you’re lucky to have someone like your aunt in your life x
Great post and I love your images. Having gone through this myself I know how hard it is for you. We learn to be better than we brought up. Love your Aunt.
Such a beautiful and emotional post. U are lucky to have such a loving aunt.
Aww! What a beautiful letter…So touching!
Your Aunt sounds like one amazing lady! x
This is such a sweet letter, its always amazing to hear such love.
Oh Ana this is such a beautiful post. I bet your aunty is so proud of the person you are x
Your letter has brought tears to my eyes, I have often read about your horrific childhood, and it is so lovely to know you have someone who saw you for who you really are and loves you.
What a beautifully personal post. You are so lucky to have your aunty in your life.
What a strong and powerful post.
Very open and I admire that.
No one should have to suffer the childhood you have but you sound very strong now and that sounds like it’s a little to do with your aunt and a lot to do with your strong character
Such a moving post Ana, from start to finish. You have been through so much sadness. You are so lucky to have your Aunty and she is lucky to have you too.
Love outfit Ana, the bag is so sweet. I love cupcakes 🙂
absolutely lovely hun , I to know exactly what it feels like to be living a car wreck of a childhood not just in the past but each day as we try to move on, my aunt was also my hero and im pleased you had her to help you through it x
what a lovely letter. No one should ever be made to feel belittled. I could not imagine abandoning my daughter or hurting her that way. I am glad you had that maternal bond with your aunt though. It is a wonderful thing
This is such a beautiful and moving tribute to your Aunty. She has been the one constant support in your life through all of your struggles and it must have been so devastating for you when she was diagnosed with cancer. Thank goodness she was given the all-clear and continues to be the source of unconditional love and support for you that she has always been x
What a heartfelt letter. Your aunt sounds like an amazing woman who was able to help you get through such a tough time in your life. You’re truly a fighter and an inspiration!
What a lovely story and lots of memories to cherish. I hope to be that Aunty for my nieces 🙂
What a really lovely tribute to your aunt and very beautifully written. I have lots of alternative Valentines – and I think of the day to just share the love with those in your life who give you joy!
I can relate to this. It was my aunt who basically raised me. She was more of a mother to me than my real mother. I can definitely see why you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day with her.
I love that phrase about being grateful for everything we’ve got. We never know how long we have got it for. Great post about a wonderful woman!
Your auntie sounds like an amazing woman! The hardships she went through and how much you cherish her shows that she’s taught you a lot about life. Such beautiful memories of your auntie!
What a beautiful and honest post. I’m sure your aunty is very proud of you 🙂
This is so lovely, she sounds like an amazing lady, no wonder you have turned our as strong as you are! xx
This brought tears to my eyes. I have a close relationship with two aunts and I could write a letter just like this to them. I’m so sorry you were abused as a child, but I’m glad you have a wonderful aunt. She sounds so strong!
It’s so sad you have to go through all that, bless you. Your aunt sounds like a brave and special person. I’m glad she’s ok.
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Such a beautiful post. Your aunt sounds like an amazing woman and I’m so glad she was there when you were growing up and never gave up on you. She’s clearly had an amazing influence on you x
Cancer and abuse are difficult topics. You’ve written a very beautiful post. I love your outfit by the way.
Wow your aunt sounds like an amazing lady. So glad you turned out how you did, couldn’t have been easy on you!
Oh I love this post, your Aunty sounds like an amazing lady. My alternative Valentine’s are to each of my four children. Kaz x
Aunts are a Godsend; they are someone safe and someone fun.
My aunts have always been there for me, and have enriched my life beyond measure.
Cancer is such an ugly reality, so thankful that your aunty survived; I will pray she never relapses.
Your aunt sounds like a truly amazing woman. You are fortunate that you had her in your life when you were growing up. Love the outfit and the cute bag.
Love. Love. Love this letter. It is so true that anyone can be your Valentine. You are such a strong woman and your Aunt sounds amazing. We actually have a segment called the choose love series. We believe that love is a choice and not always easy. We are sharing stories from bloggers who have learned to love. It can be simple like learning to love accept a feature on yourself or more complex like learning to forgive a parent. If you would lime to contribute or learn more, feel free to email us at Kindnessindemand@Gmail.com.
Thank you that means a lot she taught me to the best version of myself that I could be and even thinking about her makes me tear up. In my opinion I don’t need to look up to celebrities as role models because I have her and she is the greatest teacher of all. I would love to contribute would you be able to drop me an email please with more info? That would make my day 🙂
I’m sorry you had such a hard childhood. Thank goodness for your aunt and her love for you! I am so glad she survived!
I feel so sorry for your pain as a child how hard things have been but feel you are blessed to have had your auntie. one thing I learnt from my childhood is no matter how bad it seems it’s always best to let it go. Forgive yourself and those around you. That make take a long time to do but you will be grateful for it. Your auntie sounds so lovely X X
This made me cry with gratitude for you, that you had her. I had a childhood similar to the way you describe yours, and am still suffering from PTSD and other issues because of it. I didn’t have an aunty – I had a cousin who saw it all and was there, who knows me better than anyone else ever can because she came from the same place as me. Because she GETS me.
We didn’t have an aunty, but I have always been so grateful that I had her. I’m glad you had someone, too.
*sniffles* I ❤ you too. I am thankful to have you to turn to when I want to say things that aren’t exactly “politically correct” or even moral lol. You are my sanity on those days, and my light on days when the world around me feels dark. I can always count on a laugh so hard it makes my ribs hurt at some point during any conversation. Thank you for seeing past your own problems to help not just me, but any friend who reaches out to you. ❤
Sounds like your ‘aunty’ is a very wise person who’s seen a lot in her years! As far as the religion thing. I remember sitting at my grandpa’s funeral and my grandma squeezed my shoulder and told me that I was doing many things right and had a good head on my shoulders, but that I needed to get right with God. This was a big turning point for myself and my faith. Since then, I’ve been able to give many of my problems to the Lord and He is slowly helping me overcome them!
I hope you enjoy your day and get to cherish your aunty!
What a beautiful post. Sounds like you have a very special relationship with your aunt
That is the sweetest Valentine anyone could hope to receive. Your aunt is blessed to have you, as you are to have her.
Wow, such a brave post to put out there. You went through some horrific ordeals but its great to know you always felt you had at least one person you felt you could count on!
This is so beautiful, thank you so much for sharing this with us. Appreciating someone who isn’t romantic is very important, we have to thank those people as often as we can.
We should all be lucky enough to have such a person in our lives. Anyone who gives us unconditional love should be appreciated everyday but its good to have a special day to shout it from the rooftops.
I wish everyone had an aunt like this in their life. someone who never gave up and who has helped shape you into the person you are. When you look in the mirror see her reflection and not the ones who hurt you.
What a beautiful letter to your aunt. She sounds like an amazing strong woman that you are very lucky to have in your life. She sounds like a wonderful inspiration!
What a beautiful letter to your aunty, she sounds like an amazing woman. You look elegant as usual , The color of the skirt is my favorite and it fits great with the shirt and the boots color, Great outfit love it.
Both of you are lucky to have each other. It’s nice to know that you have an auntie to hold on to when the world comes crashing down. It’s never easy to face life alone, but with someone like her around you have all the strength that you need. It’s amazing and it’s awesome.
Wow! This was beautifully written and is such a powerful and touching post. Your aunt sounds amazing and so strong. When I read your posts, I often sense your own strength through your blogging voice.
A beautiful letter, Ana. I’m paraphrasing but a letter is a good way to express the words that go unsaid. The world is filled with unspoken words and that is something different from silence.
Beautiful letter. I’m glad to hear that you had someone there to help you through tough times. She sounds like an amazing woman.
That is so great you have an aunt like that, everyone needs someone like that in their life.
Awww this is so beautiful and straight from the heart! Hope you can convince her to let you take a picture of her so we can see her beautiful face too 🙂
xx, Kusum | http://www.sveeteskapes.com
I love your “alternative Valentine” – she sounds like an amazing woman. I am so sorry you had such a rough start in life, but your aunty was sent to you for a reason. You are very lucky to have someone like her in your life x
What a lovely letter. Your Aunty is blessed to have you and you are blessed to have her.
Such a beautiful and honest soul bearing letter to your Aunty, I think it’s lovely you have had someone in your corner through your life, it goes to show it’s not the biological roles we’ve been set that have to always be, someone else can come in and be that light in your life x
Such a brilliant post, thank you for sharing this, not everyone open it hearts on this way, really brave.
This is such a lovely heartfelt letter. Your aunt sounds like a wonderful woman x
This is written so well, really touched my heart! She sounds like a lovely Aunty! xo
your such an amazing and strong person to over come the hardships you endured, no child should deal with this. my nephew is being bullied and I want to be like your aunt to him…thank you so much for sharing this I know it probably isn’t easy to do so x
I think Valentines is a celebration of Love and love in its many forms, this was a powerful show of love x
It’s a shame you have been through so much and your aunty too aunt but I hope from reading this post that she knows just how much she means to you and what a wonderful person she is.
The perfect valentines letter. don’t think mothers are necessarily the ones who birthed us. They’re the ones that made the best impressions and loved us no matter what.
Your aunty is a brave and loving woman and you’re lucky that you have someone like her in your life, some of us don’t have any. I think it’s nice that you’re honoring her this Valentine’s day, it’s not just about having a significant other, it’s all about love and the different kinds of love.
What a difficult childhood you went through. I’m glad you had an aunty there for you.
Unconditional love transcends age, gender or person. Your aunty is a beautiful person. Your resilience and strength is an inspiration to those who go through troubled childhood. You and your aunt are warriors.
This brought a tear to my eye – such beautiful and powerful words she sounds like an amazing lady and role model
Ana, this is beautiful! I wish I was this close to my own mother/aunts. She sounds like an amazing woman, and obviously her strength has empowered you because you are becoming such a strong confident woman who is helping so many others with your words and wisdom. Hugs.
This brought tears to my eyes. Such a heart felt letter xx
Beautifully worded Ana. Your Auntie sounds like such a lovely caring person. I’m glad you have somebody so special looking out for you 🙂
(I need that cupcake bag in my life) xx
What a special relationship you have with your aunt. I am close to my aunts but it’s not the same kind of special bond. Thanks for sharing!
This is such a wonderful, deep & brave post. Thank you for letting us read so much into your relationship with your beautiful auntie xxx
This was beautiful Ana, I read every single word and after everything you’ve been through, it’s so good that you’ve had somebody consistent in your life. I’m so sorry that you became unwell but please that she’s OK and through the worst of it.
I love the idea of an ‘alternative valentine’, mine would be my Grandma although she isn’t with us anymore.
X X
What a beautiful letter; such perfectly written! I love your outfit too. I didn’t know pink and red would work together but you made them work!
Belle | One Awesome Momma
Your aunty is the prove of LOVE. Despite your tough childhood, you have inspired and continually inspiring others. This is a beautiful letter to honor your aunty and her role in your life. Bless her, and bless you!
This a very brave and beautiful post, one that i think many people can relate too and find a bit of solace in, especailly on Valentines Day. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Such a beautiful and powerfl post, totally moved me. xxx
Oh my .. what an incredibly beautiful tribute to your Aunt and the power of kindness. Sometimes when we touch another life we never know .. or even the impact that we’ve made. My guess is she’s read your post more times than she can count. Thank-you for sharing her with your readers
Great that you had this great women in your life. I love the idea of alternative Valentines and did an instagram post on giving some love back to the normal everyday people that make your life that little bit better.
Your aunt is an amazing person, but so are you! You are lucky to have her, so try to make the best of the time you have with her. We are usually so caught up in our busy life and in our everyday problems, that we take for granted the persons that love us and support us no matter what.
Your aunt is an amazing person, but so are you! You are lucky to have her, so try to make the best of the time you have with her. We are usually so caught up in our busy life and in our everyday problems, that we take for granted the persons that love us and support us no matter what. We should try and spend more time with them.
Oh lovely. This was an emotional read. What a beautiful tribute to your aunty. Everyone deserves someone like that in their life. She sounds like an amazing woman, as are you. xxx
I love this post – it is so obvious that what you have written comes from the heart. And, it’s particularly special on Valentine’s!
Your story looks sad but I guess your auntie is a heaven sent. She’s such an amazing woman. I’m glad you had her in your life!
What an amazing woman. That is so great that you had her in your life. What a beautiful letter.
What a beautiful dedication to your Aunt. You sound like you really love her so sweet.
As a military wife who could barely handle her busy schedule I am truly glad I came across your post. Cheers to all the women in our life that is brave and awesome. Im sure your Auntie is very beautiful inside and out too!
back then, i love receiving and giving letters. reading a letter is very inspiring. i love it.
This is an amazing letter. Your aunt sounds like a fantastic woman
This is such a lovely post. It’s so nice to take the time to say how much someone special means to you. It sounds like she has taught you some great life lessons too.
Such a beautiful and well written post as always. Your aunt sounds like she was such a strong and positive presence in your life.
I am so sorry to hear that your aunty was diagnosed with cancer, I know what you feel because I’ve lost some relatives due to such awful illness! I am so sorry for what you have been through, This letter that you wrote for her is so touching and wise! You’re a true inspiration for me!
Your auntie sounds like a very strong and brave woman! It’s lovely that you have her in your life!
What a beautiful heartfelt letter. I am so happy that you had someone there for you to give you such love during a time that was hard.
Aunts can be so special can’t they? This is such a special letter that you have written for her x
This is such a powerful letter. I lost a woman very close to me because of cancer and it’s truly awful.
A beautiful and touching letter to someone who has played a pivotal part in your life. It brought tears to my eyes, and also anger that you had terrible treatment at the hands of people who are supposed to love you,
However, I do see the amazing determined and beautiful young lady that you have become because of your past. You are a Goddess!! x
Ana, your story is heart breaking but at the same time inspiring. I cant even imagine how you felt at that tender age. I am so happy with ALL my heart that you have grown to be a beautiful, confident young lady. You aunt was a real anchor in your life and she was the support that helped you brave through all the hardships. Sending you loads of love, happiness and success 🙂
This was such a sweet note! I love your outfit! Those boots are totally fab.
Fantastically written post, I think I’ve fallen a little bit in love with your Aunty!
Personal posts are so revealing, more bloggers should take up this style of writing.
Very brave of you to write about such an emotional subject
Thank you that really means a lot, she is such a special woman and a one of a kind role model. You need someone like her in your life. I like to write about topics that are close to my heart and she is one of them. She has been through so much x Thank you for your kind words!
Wow! What an eloquent and beautiful testimony to what sounds like an incredible woman.
Thanks for sharing,
Leigh at Fashion Du Jour LDN x
This is such an honest and beautiful letter to your aunt. Thanks for being so candid and allowing a peep into your life. We all have scars that we are most often afraid to show because we can’t let our vulnerability show. You are very brave:)
that was a very brave, and amazing post, dear Ana. I am too a survivor of abuse, my adoptive father physically, emotionally, and sexually abused me. It left me vunerable to a man who in turn who would emotionally and financially abuse me during our marriage. I am glad you had a person who lifted you up. For me, that was my Grandmother. I think without your Aunt, and without my Grandmother we both would not be the strong women we are today. So I am grateful for both of them.
I wish you all of the best, my dear fellow Survivor.
Stay strong
Claudia
Wow hun so sorry to hear what you had been through and especially since that man was meant to be someone who was meant to look after you but look what an amazing person you have become. They say that your past can make or break you and I believe that it made you stronger. I am so thankful that you had your grandma to look up to and teach you how to be strong in order to get through your abuse. May you be the beautiful strong woman that you are today forever and always. xxx
oh wow this post brought a tear to my eye! So honest and open for your Aunt.
I can definitely relate to this post. I also had a dysfunctional childhood with extended family members who came to my rescue. It is such a blessing to have had these people in our lives.
Your aunt sounds like a wonderful person. It is wonderful that you have her in your life.
This is such a special letter. I love hearing how your aunt was there for you during thick and thin. She’s helped you to become the woman you are today.
How beautiful to have your aunt’s presence in your life, even for a shorter time than you had hoped. I’m married now, but my alternative valentine would have to be my grandma – she stuck by me and loved me unconditionally through my parents’ divorce.
Oh Ana, I want to reach through the screen and give you a great big hug. Your Aunt sounds like one in a million and I’m so glad she was there for you when you needed her most. Sending lots of love to you.
Honestly, you are so blessed to have such an incredible person in your life, lovely. I lost my auntie 3 years ago and it was not easy to say gbyes. Also, your auntie is not teaching you a religion (thank goodness). Being a Christian isn’t about being religious, but spiritual, happy, joyful, saved 🙂 Please, don’t roll your eyes 😀 Hope you got the joke, girlie. Many hugs your way & once again, what a powerful post <3
xox Nadia
http://www.mielandmint.com
What a soul wrenching and heart warming letter in one. You have grown to be a really wonderful woman, and you should be proud of that Ana.
I feel that we have left parallel lives. While my abuse came from a man, it was very similar to what you experienced. I’m sorry to hear about your aunt’s diagnosis and I understand how it could impact you so. My heart goes out to you.
This is such a heartwarming letter! I love how candid it is 🙂
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What a beautiful letter. It made me cry. I too had a traumatic experience when I was young and found confort in my aunt. She’s the one that’s there for me everytime I need it. I love her so much!
Awwww, this is so heartwarming! <3 I do not have an alternative valentine but I do miss my grandparents. They were all so loving and caring. Wish I could tell them how much I love them too. :') x
Jadirah Sarmad at Jasmine Catches Butterflies ʚϊɞ
Stunning heart felt post, thank you for sharing with us through your blog. I’m glad you could see the deeper meaning behind your aunties advice. Trying to keep a positive mindset is so important, through every challenge you face.
This is such a beautiful letter to someone who is so important to you. As someone who also had a tough childhood, I can understand how important your Aunty is to you and how devasted and scared you must have been when she was diagnosed with cancer. My husband went through cancer and it was one of the darkest periods of my life. I’m so happy that your Aunty was given the all clear and that you still have this very special person in your life.
This is a beautiful letter! I’m sure this means a lot to your auntie.
Your aunty seems one hell of a person. You went though hell and still became the brave amazing person we all know today, im sure your aunty had some contribution to it, so tell her thank you for making my best friend feel safe and strong to face all the demons. Love u bud. xxx
A really beautiful and heartfelt tribute to your aunt, she sounds like a very brave, wonderful lady.
It’s interesting how you felt safe at school and amazing how one person can have such a positive impact on you when you are in a vulnerable state!
This is such a wonderful post! Your aunt would be very proud of you. 🙂
Your aunt sounds amazing. I love that you wrote a a valentine’s love letter to her and that she is so special to you.
What an amazing post. I really enjoyed reading it. So powerful and with such meaning. These days all I seem to be reading is posts with not much meaning but this post is totally different.
love is hidden behind so many corners of our lives and it’s so sad when we are not able to find and see them because no one told us how to do and how to believe we can be loved!
It’s so hard to believe love can be possible, but it is, for all of us. Your auntie must have been such a treasure in a valley of ashes. Be glad such kind of people exist!
I love the idea of alternative Valentines, and I love that you celebrated your Aunt!
Your aunt sounds like a wonderful person who help you through the rough times. I love that cupcake purse!
Beautiful letter! Thanks so much for sharing. It’s special to see posts like this.
Your aunt sounds like an amazing woman – I hope she sees this post and also sees how many readers have commented on it! What a beautiful Valentine’s letter.
What a good post I enjoy reading this and I love the letter, Your aunt was so amazing.
I thought of my grandma a million times reading this. Everyone should have an aunty/grammy like us. One of life’s greatest gifts is that kind of family.
What a beautiful letter! Thanks for sharing it. The photos are so gorgeous, too!
Wow, your aunty sounds like a wonderful woman! I am so sorry for how you were treated as a child- it makes me so sad and angry when children are treated so poorly. You have grown into a beautiful successful woman who I’m sure your aunty would be very proud of. Thank-you for sharing this raw and personal side of yourself.
Super lovely letter! you are a lucky girl to have someone like your auntie next to you.
By the way, love your outfit, specially the cupcake bag! 😉
What an amazing story and your aunt sounds like such a strong woman and a real example to live by!
Your aunty sounds like a special women!
wow such a sad story your so brave sharing that
Your Auntie sounds like an inspirational woman and it is lovely that you have someone to turn to, sound off with and love. I hope you both find your happy ever after 🙂
Beautifully written <3
Such an amazing piece of writting, so moving. Love to your aunt, she sounds like an amazing woman
Such a beautiful words Anna, I agree, we dont need a ‘man’ and Valentines its about love in general. <3
What a lovely letter your aunt sounds like an inspiring lady and that you are lucky to have her in your life.
oh my god this post is so so so beautiful..
I don’t have any relatives to write to – but it is beautiful, as is your shirt… 🙂
I’m not lying or exaggerating, but this post literally broke my heart.
I’m so sorry you’ve gone through such a rough time in your life and made me relate to a lot of it, particularly the part about having no belief in yourself and not being able to believe anyone when they say they love you. I relate to that and reading this has made me realise that I’m not alone, none of us are.
You must have poured your heart and soul into this and it must have been extremely hard to write. You’re such a brave and inspiring woman, Truly.
You should be proud of yourself.
ps – Your aunt sounds like an incredible woman
Holly x
http://www.hollysbeautybox.co.uk
I’ve never heard of an alternative valentine but think this is so beautiful! I love your reflection of your aunt and how much she means to you! I love her positivity!
Your aunty sounds like a wonderful lady and I am so happy you have her. Just a quick word of advice though – get a picture. Even if she doesn’t like it, do it anyways. I just lost my mom a few weeks ago and she was camera shy, too, and there are NOT enough pictures of her. Someday you will be thankful for the ones you get <3
A lovely letter! I hope your aunty gets to see it. She should let you take her picture! 🙂 At least the two of you together!
What a beautiful letter. The emotion and love resounds in every word. I’m glad you have your Aunty.
Your auntie seems like a great lady to have in your life. She seemed so inspiring and made a mark on your life.
I have three aunts that were a major part of my life growing up. Had. Had three aunts. I lost one of them to cancer back in December. It was devastating. I am so happy to hear your aunt beat it. 🙂
What a beautiful letter. Everyone should have someone in their life as strong as your Aunt.
This letter is so sweet, I love how you wrote this. Both you and your aunt are such strong women!
What a sweet letter. You also have such good quality posts. And your outfit is always on point!
That is such a great letter I love letters like this it always gives me a warm feeling and is always a great reminder of how important all types of relationships are whether it be romantic familial or friends
This is one of the most beautiful posts I have ever read. It’s clear that you’re aunt had a huge impact on your life and that you both meant a lot to eachother. Thank you for sharing such an intimate letter with us ❤️
What a beautiful letter to your valentine. That skirt is gorgeous! I love your headband too! Your photos are fantastic with such vibrant walls behind you.
What an amazing post! I love how she is such a positive influence in your life! That is so incredible to have, even with everything you have been through, someone to lean on.
Beautifully written. Your aunt sounds so wonderful.
Such an emotional post but very powerful. You are one strong lady 🙂 x
This is a beautiful beautiful post.
I am so sorry about the trauma and difficulties you have had in your life, but I am so glad that you had your aunty there with you to help you and teach you these important feminist strengths.
I don’t have anyone like that to write about-I wish I did. I have PTSD because of experiencing trauma and then having little to no support after it. I still feel very, very alone.
If you ever want to write more about your trauma, or the positive effects of having you wonderful aunt to help combat your trauma, my blog is all about life after trauma and I’m actively seeking guest posters. You’re always welcome, any time. Just e-mail me if you ever do: bettymama206@gmail.com
Your aunt sounds like an incredible support for you. Someone you can look up to and trust. Sounds like you have a great relationship.
I first want to say that you have grown up to be a strong girl. I admire you for being so vulnerable to us and sharing this love letter that you have written for your Aunty. I had a similar childhood, yet it was the stepfather that tormented me during my childhood. I, too left home and bounced around between my Aunt’s house and school. School was my save haven as well. My valentine is my Godmother. She was the one, like your Aunt who cared for me, who isn’t afraid to tell me the truth, and basically raised me during my teenage years. They were both right to tell us that we didn’t need to stress and be depressed about the things that we were going through, but that we should be grateful for what we do have. And it’s crazy because at first we didn’t see that what we do have is Love. We often blind ourselves from this love through our expectations that it should come only from our bio parents, friendships, or romantic relationships, but we had love. You had love through from your Aunt, and me through my Godmother. Ana, I am so honored that you would want this post to be shared on my blog. I also like the images and the clothes that you chose to illustrate your story. Even though I don’t personally know you, I’ve seen your evolution into this strong and beautiful woman through this post. ❤️
Gosh I feel like the worst person, I’ve been reading your blogs via Bloglovin because the layout was hectic for my screen reader… I can honestly say that I’m so happy to be able to leave you comments now 😍
As always your writing is beautiful and and so open, I admire the way you write and the way you pour your heart out onto a page.
Your auntie sounds like a wonderful woman, and this is a perfect tribute to her.
Happy Valentine’s Day Ana Xxx
You are so lucky that you have a great relationship with your aunt. I wish I had that. I also had no idea about your childhood and it was very emotionl to read. You’re so brave Anna x
Wow this is so powerful and your aunt sounds like a beautiful soul ❤
A powerful and lovely tribute. We all need someone to advocate for us. I am glad she served that powerful force in your life. I also love the idea of an “Alternative Valentine.” 🙂