🔵 By Son Tran. Photo by lauragrafie.
I am greatly humbled by all the letters I received over the years. Each letter has helped comfort me through some of the darkest days. When I was at my lowest point of giving up, an unexpected letter seemed to always arrive to encourage me to be steadfast. In those moments, I dusted myself off and found the strength to endure another day. Over the years, I have been blessed to correspond with many people from all over the world. Those friendships allowed me to share countless moments of laughter, love, sadness and simply experience life in a unique but profound way.
One of the most invaluable lessons I have learned from these friendships: people come into your life for a number of reasons. Some will stay for more than a season, but far more will fade over the course of time. Yet, each person will contribute to your life in a meaningful way. Sometimes friendships begin with good intentions but life happens, and friends drift apart. Yes, I am saddened to lose a friend and see a friendship end. But I am okay. I am always grateful for that chapter to exist in my life.
To the friendships that have withstood the test of time, I appreciate your faithfulness and I know how deeply blessed I am to have you in my life. I am honored by your steadfastness, patience, and for the simple fact that you have allowed me into your life. For, together, we have discovered life in the most unlikely ways, for in friendship, we will never have to walk alone.
To my family, who have never abandoned me and loved me unconditionally from day one, I love you dearly. I am grateful for your understanding and for allowing me to make mistakes, not judging me as I find my path through life. I am constantly reminded of what it means to have a family’s unwavering support. Out love for one another will always keep us strong – keep us family.
And to the people who have yet to enter my life, I know we may be strangers now, but I will soon be thankful to you and the friendship that we shall develop. In friendship, we shall write the story of our lives, one chapter at a time.