A letter that was not sent, but should have...


My dear young friend,

It was really good to see you Friday night. Hope the food was worth the long
drive.

I'm really sorry to hear what happened to S. It really took me by surprise;
seems not so long ago you were both so little and carefree, yet in reality you
guys are all grown up now. Last night I wanted so much to hug you, but was
afraid it may embarrass you if you are in the awkward 'disliking public
affection (especially by old auntie)' phase. The last thing I want is to make
you feel uncomfortable. I must say I'm still a bit shaken, as you are like a
part of my extended family, and she's one of your best friends that I've also
known for so long.

You are really something though. I'm so proud of you for helping a friend in
need, and be able to stay strong for her and for yourself. Hopefully she's also
learned to be stronger for herself, and for those who care about her or need
her. When I was around your age, I worried about a lot of things. Sometimes the
negative thoughts got so strong that I just wanted everything to go away.
However, I'd always think back to the worst thing that had ever happened to me
before, and how those 'my world is about to end worries' became not so seriously
important, only days/months/years later. That's how I know that no matter how
bad I think it is at this moment, it will not be as bad as I think
days/months/years from now. Also I was fortunate enough to be involved in many
volunteering projects that not only gave me something to concentrate on besides
myself, but also a chance to be and to help those that are less fortunate.

Of course, everyone is different, but no one has to fight or face life alone.
Help is always available, and it is ok to ask for help.

When you talk to S again, please send along my love (silently is fine too),
and make sure she knows that she's very important to those that need her help
and those that care about her, no matter what or if anyone else says otherwise.
You've probably seen it many times, but here are some video of Nick Vujicic,
not sure if it'd help, but always good to put things into perspective.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGZYT50Bow4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AW579icDRSA

Maybe you'd think it's weird that I'd worry about you and S, or that I'd
care. I can't explain it, but I'm sure you will understand someday. As always,
please feel free to call me if you ever need anything. As you get older, I
probably won't be able to solve your problems as easily as when you were
younger, but I shall do my best to work things through with you. Just remember
that we've all had to live through the years you are at now to get to where we
are today, so don't be surprised if we know a thing or two (though I'm sure many
of us would rather forget it all).

Wishing you the best always, love,