Letter to Old Friend: Not every letter has a point.
By Heinrich
Dear friend,
I have become aware that this column is somewhat of a “downer.” I don’t think I aimed to be a voice for the maudlin masses, but I achieved it nonetheless.
The truth of it all is that I am happy by nature. I easily smile and laugh. I’m capable of seeing the world and life as something worth living for. At least, recently.
I am quite happy where my life is now. I have very minimal regrets to speak of and I have hopes for my future. That’s a new sensation I think.
Growing up is something you are not aware of until it’s happened. If you’re lucky, you catch it right after the first push for maturity.
Usually in your late teens and early 20’s is where this push is done. Whether you like it or not. Jobs, college, the endless tabs of financial aid make it all real.
When this happened to me, I found myself terrified. This terror could be the reasoning behind a lot of questionable decisions I made at 18, but best not to fret about that now.
I am in no way done growing up though. I certainly hope not. What a tragic life that would be. To be stuck in the mind of a pessimistic 20 year old. I shudder to think.
I think I’ve become very British in this letter. It happens sometimes. Shan’t do anything about it.
Anyways. I'm quite protective of my happiness now. Knowing what it’s like on the other side of the greener grass, I have no interest of ever going back there again.
But I also learned that one cannot plan for such things. I still have time to make devastating mistakes.
I could still fall in love with a boy, I have no business falling in love with. I can close myself off to the people I hold dear, a skill that I’m still unlearning. I could get a despicable haircut that will make me look like an absolute knob.
There's the Britishness again. I don’t know where that’s coming from.
This determination to live is new to me. It feels like a second wind of sorts. It’s nice.
Was there a point to this letter? Not necessarily. It’s a good thing that this is my column and not anyone else's.
Sincelerly,
Your friend