Dear _____________,

The writing challenge is to express gratitude. I need to thank you.

You made me who I am and that’s not an overstatement. Our time together helped shape me in a way that nothing else will. I literally went from a girl to a woman in that span and the woman that I’ve become is indelibly stamped by you.

You taught me to be fearful. You’d never lay a hand to me; never even cursed in my presence really. But you taught be to be cautious. The next time I find love, I will sieve it carefully. I can’t always trust how I feel. I will listen. I will heed. And I will run and hide when necessary.

You showed me what I wanted. I want intellect. I want polish. I probably won’t be happy without it. I probably would’ve dated more had I not met you. But my standards are so high now – reasonably high, I think – that I don’t date much. If I’m not caught by wit or intelligence, there likely isn’t a second date. I thank you for helping me not waste time.

But mostly, I thank you for allowing me to love you. You did so reluctantly, but you allowed me into your heart for a time and I appreciate it. I know what it’s like now. I know how it feels.

You and I operate on different frequencies. I know you probably won’t ever be back. But you live in my heart. The next time I have to see you and act as if you don’t exist, as if my heart isn’t shattering as I walk past you, remember you live in my heart.

I thank you for taking part of this trip with me.