Faded Photograph Collecting Dust

I never told you. First, I haven't seen you since we last spoke, but more importantly, I didn't think that you'd care. All the same, I wanted to tell you that I kept your photograph that you gave me. You were my first relationship, and true, it did not work out, but your photo still sits on my nightstand.

I keep it not because I enjoy the fact that your smiling face is the last thing that I see each day, or because I believe that you are the physical embodiment of an angel (I do believe those things), but I keep it rather, because, it is a reminder of hope. Not the hope of a bright new future, or a world without war, or any of that nonsense, but hope for me that there is still one crazy, lovely, and brilliant young lady in the world that knows how to put up with me, and even on the rare day, find my antics attractive and charming.

I keep your photograph because it helps to remind me of the (hopefully good) memories that we share. I know that it wasn't much. But still, you offered me more than you know: joy, for a short time, in thinking that sometimes life can slow down so that we may enjoy the minute details such as a picnic lunch; a chat about a topic that we both find intriguing; or just the knowledge that despite our having different viewpoints on a matter, two people can sit and have a civil debate (not argument) based on mutual respect and a desire to understand the other person's viewpoint, where facts and opinions can be fleshed out, viewed rationally, and agreed upon, all within the context of civility.

While it did not last, I am not ashamed of our relationship. In fact, quite the opposite. Having the honor of getting to know you was (and still is) a high point in my life. I do hope that I can find another that can be as kind to me as you were. It is the hope that keeps me going when times are rough inside my storming mind. And that slightly faded photograph of yours is the beacon with which I can guide myself to safety inside that storm. Despite the dust that covers it from the passage of time, the hope still shines through.