Member-only story
A Love Letter Different From Any I’ve Written Before
To the man who inspired it.
I surprised myself by walking with you downstairs to the car this morning before your departure for a business trip.
As you know, the depression following my grief has made it difficult for me to get out of bed, even more so to put on my shoes and walk outside of the controlled space of our home first thing in the morning.
Finally, after eight months, I have the distance and the strength to start being there for you in the way I want to be.
As you placed your carry-on in the trunk, the driver asked us a question we couldn’t hear. The noise of cars whizzing down the highway just across the street drowned out any other sound.
After we got things sorted, you took off. You lowered your window and reached your hand out for me as the space between us increased.
“Have fun!” I yelled. Then, as an added measure of caution, “Be safe!”
I walked back inside, up the elevator, and down the hallway. I realized I hadn’t brought my phone with me. I become more aware of these tiny acts of foolishness when you’re not around.
After all, you’re my best friend-the person who helps me sort things out.
