A GYPSY has revealed the heart-wrenching reason she’s always dressed in black, explaining that it’s to do with her culture.
Pashy regularly shares videos on her social media page, and often opens up about her “gypsy way of life”.
She’s also happy to answer followers’ questions, and was recently asked why she always seems to be wearing black.
She responded in a video on TikTok, as she explained: “When somebody close to you in the family dies, we’ve got to wear black for a whole year. It’s respect.”
Her mum sadly passed away last August, so Pashy has been wearing black since then.
“There is a lot out there these days that don’t do it,” she admitted.
“But the old ones they do. We’ve been brought up the old-fashioned way.”
Pashy also admitted she’ll probably continue to wear black even after the year is up.
“I’ll probably carry on wearing it for quite a long time,” she said.
“My sisters ain’t gonna come out of it and I don’t think I am – maybe I might wear black with a bit of colouring or whatever, but I’ll always still wear black later on.”
She went on to admit it hasn’t got any easier for her to come to terms with her mother’s passing, and feels like she lost her “a week ago”, rather than nearly six months ago.
“When somebody loses their parents, it’s never the same,” she said.
“We can carry on and try and do things Differently and whatever but it’s always there.
“Unless it happens to you, nobody will ever ever understand – no-one knows how you feel inside.
“You’re breaking your heart in two you you’re broke.”
Pashy concluded her video by urging people to “be kind” to others because you never “know what other people go through”.
“Don’t judge people it don’t matter what they’ve got what they ain’t,” she said.
“Just remember this – you can be a multi-millionaire, you can be poor and live in a cardboard box.
Traditions in the gypsy/traveller communities
Nomadic lifestyle: Traditionally, many travellers maintain a nomadic lifestyle, living in caravans and moving frequently. This mobility is a core aspect of their identity, reflecting a deep connection to freedom and independence.
Strong family bonds: Family is central to traveller culture. Extended families often live and travel together, providing a strong support network. Marriages and social events are significant community affairs, reinforcing familial ties.
Distinct Language: Many travellers speak Shelta, also known as Cant or Gammon, a distinct language that mixes elements of Irish, English, and other languages. This language serves as a cultural marker and a means of private communication within the community.
Religious practices: The traveller community often follows Roman Catholicism, with religious festivals and milestones like baptisms, communions, and weddings being particularly significant. However, individual beliefs and practices can vary widely.
Unique celebrations: Events such as horse fairs and traditional weddings are major social gatherings for travellers. These occasions are marked by elaborate preparations, vibrant attire, and communal participation.
“You’re all going down in the same hole.
“Remember that no one’s perfect and no-one’s better than anyone else.”
People were quick to comment on Pashy’s video, with one admitting: “My hubby died 13 yrs ago and I always wear black.”
“My mum has been gone 16 years this year – still miss her everyday, still talk to her,” another added.
“I wore black for a year as well, sending love.”
“It doesn’t get easier, the grief never leaves you,” a third wrote.
“It’s been five years since I lost my Mam, I miss her and think about her everyday.
“You just learn to deal with it. Bless you, keep going.”
“This made me cry,” someone else said.
“I understand you, my mamma has been gone 10 years and I still yearn for her so badly – my heart hurts with the pain.”
“So hard,” Pashy replied.
“Everyday you get up, no matter how, you try get on each day – it just breaks my heart.”
