The Longest Goodbye with Mila Knight
Songwriter, Mila Knight
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Today’s podcast is a special one, as we take a dive into what happens after a story is published. Our guest is Mila Knight, a returning voice on The Burn whose journey through breast cancer has been profoundly touching and inspiring. If you remember, Mila joined us previously to read her poignant essay, "Crawling in My Skin," from our 2021 “Body” issue. In that essay, she shared how music became a beacon of hope during her breast cancer treatment.
Today, we’re excited to present an update on Mila's journey, focusing on her transformation from writer to songwriter, and how she’s used her experiences to create something beautiful and impactful. Mila was 38 when she was diagnosed with Stage II hormone-positive breast cancer, and since then, she has channeled her experiences into music that not only heals but also serves a greater purpose.
From Journal Entries to Song Lyrics
Mila's journey through cancer has been deeply intertwined with her love for music. During our previous discussion on The Burn, she revealed how journaling became songwriting, leading to the creation of a fundraising concert. Today, Mila shares a new dimension of her creative process with us. The song she’s chosen to share is called “The Longest Goodbye.”
The song’s lyrics, a beautiful blend of vulnerability and strength, capture the essence of dealing with a terminal illness and the impact on both the patient and their loved ones. Mila's lyrics reflect a deep and personal exploration of time, love, and loss:
“We hear the news and time flashes before our eyes. A version of all the moments we’ll never share...”
The song is a tribute to Mila's friend, Eileen Kaminsky, who faced metastatic breast cancer. Eileen's husband’s made a comment one day—“living with her is like the longest goodbye”— that struck a chord with Mila and became the inspiration for this deeply personal song.
Mila’s creative process involved a blend of personal reflection and collaboration. She initially wrote the song on her own but sought the help of Enobong Etta, an award-winning songwriter, to refine it. Their collaboration was about more than just creating music; it was about telling a story that would resonate with others.
Mila shared how her fear of releasing something so intimate was counterbalanced by her commitment to her promise of living fully and in service to others. The song, despite being deeply personal, was meant to touch others who might be navigating similar experiences.
A Platform for Change
One of the most inspiring aspects of Mila’s journey is how she has used her music as a platform for advocacy and fundraising. Mila’s concerts, which have significantly exceeded their fundraising goals, have been a way for her to give back while pursuing her passion. Her initiative, "Cancers Against Cancer," which she co-founded with her friend, continues to raise funds for breast cancer research and support.
Mila’s concerts are not just events; they are a testament to how personal experiences can be transformed into collective benefits. Each performance is a step toward making a difference in the fight against cancer and supporting those affected by it.
Looking Ahead
As Mila continues her journey, she’s not only working on new music but also planning future fundraising events. Her next concert is set for September 21st in New York City. This ongoing commitment to using her voice and platform to make a difference is truly commendable.
For those inspired by Mila’s story, you can find her music on all major streaming platforms and keep up with her latest updates through her website, MilaKnight.com.
Writing Prompt Inspired by Today’s Episode
In the spirit of Mila’s song, we invite you to explore your own story through writing. Here’s a prompt inspired by “The Longest Goodbye”:
Set a timer for eight minutes and write without stopping or editing. Let your thoughts flow freely as you explore the theme of "The Longest Goodbye." What does this mean to you? How does it relate to your own experience with cancer, whether as a patient or a caregiver?
Writing prompts like this can help unlock the stories you have inside you. For more Wildfire freebies and resources here. Thank you for joining us in this special episode. Mila’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of turning personal pain into something that can touch and inspire others.
Stay tuned for more stories and writing inspiration, and remember, every story shared is a step toward healing and connection.
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