Dear Michael,

 
 

This is who I see when I see you, this right here.

 
 

 
 

This is how I see you. Expectant, shy but confidant. Even with the crooked haircut. Already turning away. All, every bit of you, ready for the camera, for what’s ahead. Not fully smiling, not fully enjoying it, hint of a smile, eyes clear and deep, almost endless. One arm still hooked back around my neck. As if steadying yourself, finding that last moment of purchase before leaping, before finding yourself. You have no idea who you are, but you don’t care. Not quite reckless, not arrogant, just literally head strong.

 
 

This is what I hope I mean to you. That last bit of holding on without looking, a touch stone you can remind yourself is there even without touching. Of knowing I am there to fall back on, I am there for you to push off of, to gain momentum.

 
 

I love you and adore you and admire you. I will always protect you, I will always let you go when you need me to but I will always anchor you when you feel untethered. Just reach back and you will find me there. I might be the launching pad, but you’re the rocket.

 
 

always,

me