J,
Each week, I send out a letter of gratitude. Usually, my letters go to a well-wisher but this week, I dedicate my letter to a teacher. This week I dedicate my letter to You.
My readjustment to the USA has been a really interesting one. It’s been filled with reverse culture shock, accepting the reality of relationships, removal of toxic people, setting personal boundaries, and a huge personal challenge to not engage with the certifiable.
You were actually one of the reasons why I joined a sorority at Augie. The older COGS were the most AUTHENTIC people in college and encompassed the non-conventional way of life. COGS went to the beat of their own drummer. They were unapologetic about their approach to life. They were rough around the edges. They kept things simple, they showed up, and they loved one another! I very much admired those qualities.
I appreciate you guys showing up for a home track meet. My mommabear always thought highly of you guys (she was under the impression that The Circus was the most supportive group of non-athletes on campus). It’s just a shame that the support didn’t continue after college. It was disheartening when you didn’t show up for any of my homecoming/leaving parties, grandfathers’ memorial services or even make the time for a proper meal. I think you would have loved to see my mommabear’s place in Aurora and meet her dog, Jax. He’s pretty amazing. I know how you feel about animals.
My baseline for friendship has been BE NICE OR GO AWAY. Our friendship taught me 2 lessons. One, to accept change. I’m grateful for the memories shared up until 2016. 2017 was a harsh reminder that not everything should be viewed through a rose-colored lens and at the end of the day, people can only meet me as far as they are able to meet themselves. Two, to let go. One thing I learned from dealing with my father is to let go. You have been an echo of this concept. People’s opinion of me is none of my business. My only job is to look after my well-being and remove people that no longer help me physically, emotionally or spiritually. Life is about growth. One can only succeed if surrounded by people that inspire growth.
So from the bottom of my heart, thank you for the memories. Thank you for the reminders. Thank you for the lessons. It’s been a real treat knowing you for the last 15 years.
I agree with you and I close this friendship with love and positive intention.
with love,
Corvo
#LetterOfGratitude