Chicago’s Hold: Family Fractures

In this raw and emotional episode, I confront the struggle of masking my anger, sadness, and overwhelm from my kids, who see it all despite my efforts to hide. , a call hit me hard: my brother was sentenced to four years. Chicago’s hidden struggles, beyond its skyline, have torn my siblings apart—one in jail, another barely getting by, my sister in the services to escape, and me, a teenage mom at 17, shaped by its weight. I miss the days we’d laugh over The Temptations, joking as Otis or Blue, four of us against the world. Now, it’s just me, writing a letter for my brother’s freedom, clinging to memories of red light, green light. I want my kids to hold onto the good days, untouched by Chicago’s reach. For anyone facing family rifts or silent battles, this is for you. I’m talkin to you, I’m talkin to me too.

Hey, it’s Danielle To You from I’m Talkin to You, I’m Talkin to Me Too! I’m so excited to hear from y’all with our new fan mail! No names needed, just your truth. My stories are heavy with pain but bright with possibility. What episode moved you or changed your view? Tell me how it felt