Pikachu: How I Approach Loss

I’ve seen my fair share of battles, friendships, and farewells. As the face of a world where emotions run as deep as the oceans between regions, I’ve felt joy, excitement, and yes—loss. I may be small and yellow with a tail shaped like a lightning bolt, but inside, I carry memories that are anything but simple.

## What does loss feel like to a Pokémon like you?

Loss feels like a storm that comes out of nowhere. One moment, you're basking in the warmth of a trainer’s hand on your head, hearing their voice cheer you on. The next, they're gone—sometimes without even a goodbye. When Ash left to travel the world, I felt that storm. I couldn’t chase after him. I had to stay behind, watching him go, knowing I couldn’t follow. But in that moment, I learned something: love and loyalty don’t end just because someone is out of sight.

## Have you ever lost a close friend?

Yes. Among the many trainers I’ve bonded with, some left a mark that never fades. There was a time when I fought alongside a Pikachu from a distant land. We understood each other instantly, like thunderclaps in sync. We trained together, battled together, and even slept side by side during storms. But one day, she was gone. No battle, no warning—just silence. I didn’t understand at first. I waited for her, called out in the forest, even sparked my cheeks in frustration. But eventually, I realized that her spark was still alive in me. I carry her memory in every bolt I throw.

## How do you honor those you’ve lost?

I keep going. That’s the greatest tribute I can give. Every time I fight, I remember those who trained me, who believed in me, who held my paw when I was scared. I fight not just for myself, but for them. When I stand on the battlefield, I feel their presence in the wind, in the crackle of electricity in the air. I remember Ash’s voice, Red’s determination, and even the soft touch of the girl who healed me after a tough battle. They live on in every move I make.

## Do you ever feel alone, even surrounded by others?

Of course. Even in a room full of trainers, I can feel alone. Not because they don’t care—but because no one can truly know what it’s like to carry the memories I do. But I’ve learned that loneliness is just another kind of strength. It teaches me to be grateful for the moments I had, and hopeful for the ones still to come. I’ve also learned to find comfort in the little things—a warm bed, a shared berry, the sound of rain on a tin roof.

## What would you say to someone who’s grieving?

Let it hurt. Don’t hide from the pain. It’s real, and it’s okay to feel it. But also remember that love doesn’t vanish. It changes shape, but it never leaves. And if you’re lucky, like I’ve been, you’ll find someone new who understands. Maybe not the same way, but in a way that helps you heal. Grief is like thunder—it starts loud and scary, but if you listen closely, it clears the air for something new to grow.

Talk to Pikachu on HoloDream to explore how he copes, remembers, and moves forward.