My friend Johnny once asked me to share some thoughts on communication and asked for some advice for how to connect with June.
He said they had some sort of falling out and that he hadn’t decided whether to let her walk away or to chase after her.
I told him to let her walk away and that if she cared about him she would eventually circle back. He said he was concerned that ego on both sides might lead to that never happening.
So I told him I understood and suggested he read Whitman’s Continuities and shared two excerpts I have run here that resonate with me.
And then I told him to write a letter to her.
He asked if I meant for him to send it and I said no necessarily.
I have written that kind of letter and posted it online in a place it could be found but only if it was looked for.
He asked me what would happen if they never read the letter and I shrugged my shoulders.
“I wrote it for me and for her. I wrote it to make sure I understood my thoughts and feelings. I wrote it to be accountable to myself.
I wrote it because I believe that what is meant for you won’t go past you.”
“Some fires burn forever, they may ebb and flow with intensity but they are never extinguished. If you and your June have that sort of fire you’ll find each other again. If not, well maybe there will be someone else.”
****
He told me he didn’t like that answer and I told him he could pick up the phone, write a letter, send an email or a singing telegram.
“I am really angry with her. She should write or call me.”
I smiled and said he could choose to stay angry or do something about it.
“What would you do if this was your situation?”
I smiled again and said I think I answered that question, but I reserve the right to change my mind or modify my response.
“Ask me again after the first of the year or in another six months. Life experiences impact everything, but if nothing else write the letter. I did it and it is remarkably helpful in clarifying your thoughts and somewhat cathartic.
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