Dear Parents,
It felt like my partner and I were the last two individuals on the planet to watch the latest Star Wars installment. The theater was bustling with fans clad in costumes—Storm Troopers, Jedi, and the occasional Chewbacca.
With eager anticipation, we found our seats right in the middle of the auditorium. Before long, the theater filled to capacity, and everyone switched off their phones, eager to immerse themselves in the cinematic experience.
As TIE fighters and Starfighters engaged in a breathtaking battle across the galaxy, the familiar sounds of blasters and cheers filled the air. Yet, amidst all this excitement, all I could hear was your child—laughing loudly at moments that were supposed to be suspenseful and gripping.
Just as the tension built before a climactic scene, your child would let out a hearty laugh. I can’t express enough how much I appreciated that.
People paid good money for this spectacular film, and I was distracted by your kid! In a particularly intense moment where Rey confronted Kylo Ren, I was at the edge of my seat, desperately wishing for Rey to tap into the Force and triumph. But then, I could no longer contain myself. Tears streamed down my face—yes, I cried during Star Wars!
There I was, wiping my nose with those harsh theater napkins, feeling utterly foolish as I tried to enjoy the action-packed scenes. Your child’s laughter, innocent and carefree, reminded me of my son, Jacob.
That spontaneous moment when your child found something hilariously funny tugged at my heartstrings, echoing memories of Jacob. I could almost see you, as a parent, silently hoping your child would quiet down. It reminded me of moments with my own son when I wished for just a little peace in a loud setting.
You see, we lost our son Jacob earlier this year due to a severe infection. The days following his passing have been filled with immense sorrow, making it difficult to find joy, laughter, or even to breathe. What was meant to be a simple night out with my husband quickly turned into a bittersweet reminder of our loss.
Despite the annoyed murmurs from the hardcore Star Wars fans around us, I want to thank you for bringing your child to the movie this weekend. Thank you for allowing them to revel in the joy of a film they clearly loved. Thank you for giving me permission to remember, to cry, and to even laugh about it later.
I hope you all enjoyed the film as much as your child did and that your child’s laughter added a unique touch to the experience.
May the Force be with you,
Jessica (the only person to cry at a Star Wars movie)