Meaning: This quote by Petra Nemcova, a Czech model and philanthropist, reflects the deep emotional connection she maintains with her late partner, Simon Atlee, who tragically passed away in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. In these few sentences, Nemcova encapsulates the profound impact of loss and the way in which she continues to communicate with Atlee, both verbally and in writing. The quote also alludes to the broader emotional resonance of Atlee's presence among their loved ones.

In the aftermath of the devastating tsunami, Nemcova was critically injured and clung to a palm tree for eight hours before being rescued. Tragically, her partner, Simon Atlee, was swept away by the waves and did not survive. The experience was a turning point in Nemcova's life, leading her to establish the Happy Hearts Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to rebuilding schools and restoring hope and opportunity in the lives of children after natural disasters.

Nemcova's words convey a sense of ongoing connection and communication with Atlee, despite his physical absence. The act of talking and writing to him indicates a deeply personal way of processing grief and keeping his memory alive. This approach is not uncommon among those who have experienced loss, as it provides a channel for expressing emotions, sharing thoughts, and seeking comfort in the midst of pain.

The decision to start writing a diary specifically addressed to Atlee reflects the significance of their relationship and the impact of his absence on Nemcova's life. The act of chronicling her thoughts, feelings, and experiences in this manner serves as a form of ongoing dialogue with him, creating a sense of continuity and connection that transcends the boundaries of life and death.

Moreover, Nemcova's acknowledgment that "lots of others, family and friends, can still feel him around" suggests a shared experience of Atlee's enduring presence. This sentiment resonates with the broader theme of how the memory and essence of a loved one can continue to influence and inspire those left behind. It also speaks to the collective impact of loss within a community, where the presence of a departed loved one is felt and honored by many.

In a broader context, Nemcova's quote offers a glimpse into the complexities of grief and the various ways individuals navigate their emotions following the loss of a significant person in their lives. The act of talking and writing to the departed, as well as the shared sense of their presence among family and friends, underscores the enduring impact of personal connections and the ways in which people find solace and meaning in the face of loss.

Overall, Petra Nemcova's quote encapsulates the profound and ongoing nature of grief, the enduring connection with a departed loved one, and the collective experience of their presence within a community. It serves as a poignant reminder of the ways in which individuals continue to honor and cherish the memories of those they have lost, finding solace and connection through personal rituals and shared experiences.