Charlie,

When I first met you I remember feeling a curiosity I’ve never felt before, a thrill that I was drawn to. The more I spoke with you, the more I felt a mischievous side of myself come to light, a glimpse of my inner child breaking through. As the months went on your presence was more of a need than a want and that’s where I started to understand the depths of what you meant to me. After so long of feeling alone, you were the only person to make me feel like I’d found a home. Home to me being an all-knowing and consuming sense of safety whenever I was within your presence. A feeling that all is going to be okay.

I noticed that I had found somebody who showed me that they were willing to understand my mess, and even when I questioned whether I was worthy of their patience, they chose to stay. They chose to grow with me instead of despite me. They showed me that I don’t have to be fixed to be loved. They reminded me that I don’t have to carry everything alone. They believed in me and taught me how to grow to be the best version of myself. That person is you Charlie, so I thank you. Thank you for showing me that love isn’t just something you say, it’s something you prove, and you do it every day.

So, I make this promise to you. I’m here until the end, till death do us part. Through the darkness that may come and through the challenges we may face, I’m here and committed to die happily on this hill, because you are the only person that makes living all worthwhile.

Reception