These aren’t my words, just words re-blogged from a tumblr I follow. Credit given where due.

angelica-church.tumblr.com said:

i know carrie’s death is devastating, and i know we’re all mourning the loss of such a bright soul, but in these dark times please don’t forget what she taught us.

don’t forget that your mental illness doesn’t define you, but it’s not something to be ashamed of, either. don’t forget that you are so much more than it. don’t forget that you are not alone in your fight.

don’t forget that a jewish woman was a princess, and a general, and that she kicked some major ass.

don’t forget that you are beautiful no matter what age, no matter how your body has changed, no matter what unrealistic standards you face.

don’t forget that carrie was so much more than just princess leia. she was an author, activist, mother, friend, inspiration.

A good friend (who has never seen a Star Wars anything, bless him)sent me a text that just said “Your first love passed away today.” That kinda made it hit home in a different way. Carrie had a strong impact on me as a very young person. She made me realize that I liked girls before I had a chance to go through the typical “Girls are different and bad” phase. She let me know that some could talk sass, kick ass and could be strong, important characters. (My own mother and sister helped to naturally stress that point as well 😃 )
Star Wars could have been silly and stupid with any other actress in the role of my favorite Space Princess/Soldier/Spy. I’ve always felt that her impact on the films has always been overlooked. If she had been played by a typical actress and portrayed as a typical princess… I don’t think I’d have been a Star Wars fan.