RE: I. Monica

Ed’s Note: Today Monica turns [some age that I'm not dumb enough to type in the space of these brackets], so I thought I’d write her a letter.

Dear Mo,

I know you’ve kinda downplayed it some, but today’s a big day in your world, huh? You’re a year older and hopefully a year wiser. Knowing you, the latter is true. But I can’t be certain because a year ago at this time we probably wouldn’t quite call each other friends.

Sure, we’ve been around each other for about nine years. We’ve always been cordial and have quite a few mutual friends. But we hadn’t had more than a “hey, how are you?” conversation until some time this spring, not until one of those mutual friends pointed out how like-minded we were.

As crazy as that notion seemed at the time, I’m glad that over the last several months it’s been proven to be truth. We’re two people who can sit up and talk for hours on end, and we’ve done plenty of that this year. I’m grateful for that. I can honestly say that it’s a joy getting to know you and having you around.

Me and Mo, trying to get someone to dance $2.

As we get older, it seems like it gets tougher to keep up with the people you’re used to keeping up with consistently because we also seem to be so busy. And for me, you’ve filled a void or three because you’re always there answering the phone with some salient advice, goofy nonsense or crazy story. I know I haven’t said this, but you’ve helped me get through a few rough moments. Anyway, I just wanted to say thanks for all of that — “Your heart is true. You’re a pal and confidant.” (Yes, I still hate that show) — before I got to the point of this letter.

I’m writing this because of that “I’m getting old” conversation we had as we were getting on the elevator the other day. You know, the one where you complained about feeling old and I said something that didn’t really have anything to do with what you said because I was lamenting how much older than you I am. Yeah, that convo.

I’ve been thinking about it, and more specifically what I should have said in that moment instead of thinking about myself in a rocking chair. Though this probably wouldn’t come out of my mouth like this, it’s what I feel like I should have said:

Stop concerning yourself with age. Consume yourself with the people and things that you love most and are passionate about in this life. You know, the dreams you say I continually shoot down daily. Seriously, you’re one of the most talented, thoughtful and caring people I know. And as long as you’re patient and prudent, the things that you desire most in this life will be yours. Just focus on those things that are in your grasp and worry less about that which you can’t control.

Take the days you’ve already counted and cherish the memories you’ve taken from them. And continue doing more right than wrong in this life, as you have. Do so, and you’ll see that you’ve got many days of a great life left to live, i.e., the best of you is still hiding up your sleeve.

That’s something anyone who knows you well knows. You could say that I’m glad that I know you well at this point, and I can’t wait to see what comes of what’s up your sleeve. Anyway, happy birthday again and I hope you’re enjoying your day. See you soon.

Your friend,

Damon

P.S. Stop telling me to shut up when I’m not saying anything. lol.