‘I Need To Talk’: Maltese Photographer Reminds Us That Even The Happiest Folk Need Help With A Touching Short Story
With her photographic ingenuity and creative writing skill, Lorella Castillo is here to remind us that even the cheeriest folk can be holding on to internal struggles.
In her most recent post, Lorella tells the story of a last-minute therapy session for none other than Santa Claus himself. It all began with Santa opening up to a therapist named Louise about how “the magic doesn’t feel the same anymore.”
He continued by explaining that despite his best efforts to bring joy to the world, the grim happenings of day-to-day life seem to take a toll on old Saint Nick.
“Tonight, I received so many letters, but they weren’t wish lists,” Santa lamented, “They were pleas: ‘Please make the yelling stop.’ ‘I just want the screams to end.’ ‘Can you make my mom not be sick anymore?’”
“Do you know what it feels like to carry the world’s hopes and realise you’re not enough? I’m supposed to bring joy, but inside, I feel like a fraud.”
Louise sympathised, possibly relating to the feeling of being relied on by so many. “You’ve spent so long giving to others, but you’ve forgotten to be kind to yourself,” she admirably stated, “Even Santa needs someone to lean on.”
The post ended with Santa acknowledging his need for help, the fact that despite everything in life, you don’t have to go through it alone.
Lorella added that “it’s okay not to be okay,” reminding us that even in a season of joy and whimsy, it’s okay to be vulnerable and prioritise our mental health.
This powerful piece is just one out of a long line of content that has cemented Lorella as a talented creative. From her satirical content like San Dumu to her ability to amplify the already beautiful world around us, Castillo’s works have stunned time and time again, even landing her a very well-deserved Lovin Malta Social Media Award.
If you, like Santa, feel overwhelmed by your thoughts or the world around you, you can call the free supportline, 179 or visit Kellimni.com for 24/7 mental health assistance.
Help is out there and “the first step is always just a call away.”
Tag someone who needs to read this touching story.
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