A Letter to My 8-Year-Old Self: Living 36 Years Without My Mom

In this special bonus episode of The Life Shift Podcast, I mark the 36th anniversary of my mom’s passing by sharing something deeply personal. Usually, I’m the one listening as guests reflect on their life-altering moments. But today, I turn the question back on myself.

What would I tell the 8-year-old version of me – the boy who lost his mom in 1989 and had no choice but to grow up too quickly?

I share a letter I wrote to that younger self. It’s about grief, silence, perfectionism, and the long journey toward finally letting myself feel. It’s also about learning that our stories, even the messy ones, can help others heal.

This is both a remembrance and an offering – a way of honoring the little boy I once was, the mom I still miss, and the community of people who remind me that love and loss can coexist.

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The Life Shift Podcast shares real, honest conversations about the pivotal moments that transform lives. Host Matt Gilhooly invites guests to explore the life-changing events, unexpected challenges, and personal awakenings that have shaped who they are today. 

Through candid storytelling, listeners discover powerful journeys of identity, resilience, grief, healing, and growth. If you’re drawn to personal growth stories, inspired by how people rebuild after loss, or fascinated by the quiet moments that spark profound change, The Life Shift offers heartfelt insight and inspiration. New episodes every Tuesday.

Listen in and find connection in the stories that make us who we are.

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