A story from SRS

I never met him, but he raised me. He was my father.
I grew up in a profoundly abusive home. I had nothing but the Star Trek episodes I was allowed to watch on TV. There was no love, care, goodness, or kindness in my life except for what I had on Star Trek. I saw people like myself who were not just tolerated, but loved, celebrated, and even mourned when they died.
I had a home and family.
I learned kindness, acceptance, patience, resiliency, and so much more from Picard and TNG. I learned my morals and values from them. I learned how to stand up for what's right. I learned that being smart was actually cool and that it was ok to read and love space and science like I did.
I got away from my upbringing and have used what I have learned (and continue to) from Picard and TNG to try to be a better person every day.
I feel lost without him. I sob off and on. I can't watch the shows right now. I will be ok and I will enjoy the shows again soon, and with a new love and appreciation.
But for now, I mourn the loss of my dad.
I love you, Patrick Stewart. I love you, Jean Luc Picard. I love you, dad.
On to the next adventure, Captain.
Engage.