When I wake up in the morning, I have this habit of lying for a little while awake and aware before I open my eyes. I don't know where it came from, it just started when I was little. So, this morning, upon first waking, I had my first panicky thought of the what the hell am I doing variety. Then I opened my eyes and saw rainy skies and trees blowing fiercely in cold wind. I know exactly what I'm doing. Thank you, nature, for that reassurance. I almost welcome the weather now, as one of my lists of last things. The last time I will have to freeze waiting for a bus.... Unfortunately, later today, I have to go to the doctor for a flu shot in this weather.
There are some good things here as well, but I won't be leaving the best ones behind. They're my friends; the ones that can communicate with online. Even though it will be just words on a screen, it is still real and valuable.
I have just reconnected with my friend Cherry from years ago. And she is definitely teaching me a lot about being an adult, standing up for myself, and demanding what I want. :-). It's amazing how many different techniques for this there are.*excited waves to Cherry*. Thank you very much for everything, ma'am. You are helping more than you could ever know.*squeeze*
And Roland, my real life best friend-turned-online friend only out of necessity, I would not be who or where I am today if it wasn't for you. And that's the honest truth. And it's amazing how parallel our paths have always been since their first crossing. You will always be in my heart. I am proud of your service to our country. I am very proud of you. And I am more proud than there are words for to be your friend. Oh, and thank you for introducing me to Cherry. :-). I love you always, Sempai.
New Jersey Joe, we have definitely had our ups and downs, and I still wish you'd be more firm in some of your decisions, but I'd be remiss if I didn't acknowledge you in this list, because, besides Roland, you've been there the longest of any of my long-distance friends. I think you and Daniel tie, but he counts more in the real life category now. :-). Despite our struggles, I owe you a huge debt of gratitude for all the selfless help you have given me, even now when you can't be as firm as I would like you to. If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be making this journey right now. I would still be making it, but not as soon as I would like. So thank you with all of my heart for everything you have done and continue to do. Despite the back-and-forth from both sides, you have always shown me what a real friend is and does. You are another one whom I can say I definitely would not be here if it wasn't for you. And I will always love your crazy self for it. You rock. I roll. :-).
Wesley, there are not really coherent words to say all I need to say to you. I miss you already like fire in my bones. I am so proud of you for all you are and have accomplished. Just remember that I was one of the first ones to see it in you. :-). Don't forget me, don't forget the agreements, and don't forget to fly. You already know how. Just tell thinking Wesley to be quiet once in a while. I will always be here and have your back. I love you.
Robby in Alabama, my best friend in middle school and still keeps in touch with me to this day, you were the first person who taught me the true definition of best friend. And you were the first guy to ever give me a rose. :-). Almost the only. Thank you for always believing in me, always reminding me that I am a child of God. You make me believe in myself. And I will work for you someday. I promise. I will walk into your store and say hello. Everyone else will faint. You will be the only one in there who doesn't look surprised. :-). I love you.
Daniel, there is only one word to say to you. Stars. :-).
Love and light to you all, along with whatever other things you wish for, (giggles in the direction of Cherry) always!