Dear _______,

August 11 2007
1. You, I have so much hope for.  I'm very proud of you.  You are ambitious but kind, strong but gentle.  I'm very lucky that we ended up the way we are.  I'm not worried about your future, kiddo.
2. Can I help myself?  No.  It was very brief and very long ago, but I still wonder.  My mother warns me about people like you, but I think you're a good example of my future.  And I still have my suspicians about you.  You'll go far, anyway.
3. I'm sorry.  I wish I had been more open-minded.  I regret the way I handled things, and if I had a chance now, I would be less callous.  You deserve better.
4. There aren't words, really.  You are you, and I love you for that.  I respect you for that.  You're not afraid of yourself or what you can do, and I admire that.  I need you.  I really do.  Don't forget me.
5. I wish things could have been different.  I wish the situations were tweaked, I wish it all could have happened earlier.  I was so excited, too, just because I know when I've met a kindred spirit.  And it didn't happen, and it's mostly your fault.
6. You make me nervous sometimes, but then I always realize it's for no reason.  I rely on you, and never run out of things to say to you.  What else is there?  You made my high school experience.  Thank you.
7. I don't understand you - in a good way.  You make me smile, you make me laugh, you can be annoying, but I respect you.  Don't rush ahead.  Enjoy it.  Don't give up on the things you love.  Don't let others bring you down.
8. I did, I really did, for a long time, and more than I ever had before.  I don't now, and I'm very glad.  You have no idea the extent of it.  You would be embarrased.  You have potential - don't blow it.  Be yourself, even when it scares you. 
9. I don't blame you for my shortcomings, and I don't begrudge you your successes, whatever impression I may have given you.  You really do shine, which is why you succeed.  Don't worry so much, it's all there within you. 
10. I don't know how I feel about you.  I know what you were, what you were later, and what you are now.  I'm afraid I don't buy your explanation.  I think you need to honestly examine yourself, and also watch how you handle your relationships.
11. I would have no self-esteem without you.  Honestly, has there ever been a more affirming person?  You and her and her.  I love you all.  I wish I could give you more than what I have. You gave me so much, and I don't think you realize it.