You’ve told me time and time again you’re not ready. You care for me and appreciate my own care to an extent. But I know my care can be smothering. I am sorry for not giving you space despite our distance. But please, be direct and say when my unloading is upsetting you, or you just don’t feel like talking. The only reason I confided in you was because I trusted you. I never expected you to have all the answers. Nor did I ever expect you to continue to listen to me drone on. Please let me know when to change the subject, and I’ll gladly oblige. I’ll gladly make changes, and I already had. You had too. I’d halt myself from getting too dismal, and you’d begun to tell me directly when you were uncomfortable. Change was minimal, but I wish you could really see the progress.

I really miss you, and I bet you miss me. I think of you a lot as we approach the month of your birth. Likewise, I did want to reach out again months ago, but was displeased to see I was barred from accessing you through several communication outlets. Even searching your name in a directory or search engine is too much for me. I’d love to find other ways to connect with you, but not if it isn’t what you want. Since you were the one to stop this, you’ve left it in your own hands to be the one to restart it. Please, do not feel perturbed to do this. I have forgiven you and have no respite at all. Sometimes I think you wish I did, and I had, but grudges just hinder our fortitude. I stopped being angry because I know you are going through significant challenges just as everyone else. Further, I understand my presence in your life presents a duality that you can’t confront just yet. Please know that whenever you are ready to restart our friendship, I will be here with open arms.

I love you…still.