From: Sheldon, 15, MI
To: Nicole, 20, MI

Hello Dien,
Why does it seem to be that I find the words to say long after we’ve departed? I don’t understand it. When you gave me that hug today, all I wanted was for you to never let go…but I didn’t realize it until I was home, sitting at this computer desk yet again.
Why do I find myself writing you letters everywhere? Why am I constantly stealing things from places to bring to you..when I know that you’ll never actually get them?
You know, I have a box of things for you. And about you. It’s been in my room since February. I told you about it once, but you didn’t seem to get the picture, I don’t think. You asked me about it later, and I told you it didn’t mean anything…I fell a bit stupid for it…
I don’t even know what to say about us anymore. It’s so hard for me to just be friends with you, when I want so much more. I know I always will. And yeah, you’re 20, but I really and honestly don’t care. I never have. Anyone who has a problem with it can choke themselves with a spork.
Seeing you is hard, but not seeing you is harder. And now you’re moving tomorrow, and I don’t know what I’m going to do. Why didn’t you tell me the time was creeping up so fast? It hurts so bad, and I don’t think you can even fathom the magnitude of pain…
I see these love letters getting shorter, and I see the love of my life slowly slipping away. I see my family slowly drifting away from me, and I see the hate and discriminating I will always get…

Please stay happy, and keep in touch.

Sheldon