The open letter describes the moment in which Markle fell to the floor after being struck by sharp cramp-like pain in her abdomen as she held baby Archie in her arms.
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The opinion piece by the Duchess of Sussex serves not only as a tell-all about her unfortunate miscarriage but also as a message of hope for all of those struggling with the hardships that 2020 has brought forth. From covid-related deaths currently still plaguing nations to the riots following the Black Lives Matter movement earlier this year in the US, Markle wants to remind the reader to remain united.
She recounts a moment in which she, consumed by exhaustion during a tour in South Africa with Prince Harry, was asked by a reporter "Are you OK?". Repeatedly, throughout the letter, this very simple but important question is what Markle wants us to take away from her moment of ultimate despair:
So this Thanksgiving, as we plan for a holiday unlike any before — many of us separated from our loved ones, alone, sick, scared, divided and perhaps struggling to find something, anything, to be grateful for — let us commit to asking others, “Are you OK?”
Markle also sheds light on the importance of opening up the conversion involving taboo issues to ultimately allow room for growth and healing as she reflects on her own miscarriage:
when one person speaks truth, it gives license for all of us to do the same. We have learned that when people ask how any of us are doing, and when they really listen to the answer, with an open heart and mind, the load of grief often becomes lighter — for all of us. In being invited to share our pain, together we take the first steps toward healing
The Duchess of Sussex concludes her letter by encouraging us to fight against divisions despite social isolations and deteriorating mental health. Instead, she believes our strongest chance at conquering our collective struggle is to remain united through active communication.
