Love, Stuff, & Stitch
October 15th, 2025
Writer: Taylor Brecher
Editor: Hannah Ober
I’ve been so lucky to have a best friend since the day I was born: a pink and white fluffy puppy with a blue flower sticker smack on the top of her head – Gaga. As she sits next to me, with stitches on her neck and torn-up paws from 18 years of love, I recount the experiences she has watched me have.
Most people assume that stuffed animals are only for kids - toys designed for childhood, soon to be outgrown. But I disagree. Gaga has become the most constant aspect of my life. After long days, arguments with friends, or even exciting news, she’s always there to listen, without judgment or interruption. When I was little, I often left playdates early since I was overstimulated by the chaos and found myself resorting to Gaga. She was a breath of fresh air amidst stress.
As I got older and became exposed to the real world, she served as a reminder that everything would be okay. During late-night study sessions when my whole family was fast asleep, she sat by my side, keeping me company. She’s been with me during many milestones, like when I moved in sixth grade and felt my childhood slipping away. Through it all, her presence has grounded me.
I’ve never felt ashamed of Gaga- in fact, I love to show her off. Everybody who knows me knows her too, especially since my Snapchat private story has been called “Gaga Fanclub” since my freshman year of high school. From Facetiming with a friend to flirting with a boy, she finds her way into every conversation.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of life, especially as a middle child who’s been overlooked. Typically, when I reflect on my younger years, a wave of sadness crosses me, the nostalgia creeps in too deeply, and I feel the weight of growing up. However, Gaga’s presence softens that ache that I feel. She reassures me that my childhood is not something I’ve lost- instead, I carry it with me wherever I go. I don’t think I express my appreciation for her enough, so here it is:
Dear Gaga,
You bring me an unparalleled level of comfort and a sweet connection to a past I can no longer experience. Your eyes have seen so many memories; you hold pieces of who I was and never let that slip away. You’ve absorbed my tears and my laughter, secrets and confessions. I couldn’t have gotten through my summers at camp without you, although I will continue to keep you away from dirty hotel sheets and airplanes. I may have my sticker bean book, yummy collection, and squishies tucked away neatly in my closet, but you will remain cuddled beneath my arm, regardless of how much time passes. Despite life’s unexpected trajectory and all the ups and downs I’ve encountered, you have always been there. Thank you for not only teaching me how to be confident in myself, but also helping me understand that it’s ok to be alone sometimes. Your advice, though not spoken aloud, only felt, is always exactly what I need to hear- my own thoughts and instincts reflected back at me. You are a connection between my past and present. You are more than fabric and stuffing, and you will always be my best friend- no matter how old I get.
With love,
Tt
