Older

Sasha Alex Sloan takes us on a journey from the eyes of a child, feeling the need to hide from the tumultuous atmosphere created by parents at odds. There's an initial sense of naivety and disbelief, the child's wish for an idyllic family setting in stark contrast to the stark reality of her own. It's a barricade, both physical and emotional, the volume of music drowning out conflict, an attempt to escape the chaos that comes with handling complex relationships.

As the narrative progresses, Sasha Alex Sloan's perspective shifts from the black-and-white thinking of her youth to the understanding that comes with maturity. The realization that parents aren't the infallible heroes she once imagined, but rather humans grappling with their own emotions, brings a sense of empathy. It's a poignant transition from anger and misunderstanding to a bittersweet comprehension and acceptance of the family dynamics and the complications love can bring.

Within the story, there's a surrendering to the truth that love isn't the fairy tale often dreamt of or portrayed. Sasha Alex Sloan discovers it firsthand, not just as an observer but as a participant in her own relationships, learning that despite the best intentions, pain is a part of the process. The emotional journey deepens, with the melancholic knowledge that letting go can sometimes be the kindest act of love, even if it's a lesson that only clarity with age can reveal.

In a culminating moment of self-reflection, the 'Older' I get sentiment becomes a beacon of growth and wisdom. Facing life's trials, the bond of family- both biological and chosen- becomes a sanctuary. Sasha Alex Sloan evokes a tender recognition of the imperfections in all relationships, channeling pain into understanding, and transforming isolation into an embrace of communal resilience.