Letter to the Editor

Dear Dan,

Hey, I know how you've been feeling lately. You're a grab bag of slight homesickness, mental tiredness, restlessness, and that twinge of hope that can't leave you. I know it's been rough, and I now how excited, and nervous you are to move on. Just wanted to write a couple things to your way. Remember I'm a bit tired and worn out myself, so this may come across as, well, straight up weird.

1. Never stop believing in yourself.

You're not perfect Dan, you know that. But if there's one flaw that's been hounding you lately it's your skill at appearing confident. You can look confident, you can ooze it. But you don't got it. Don't lie. It's good to step back and question yourself, but it's bad, bad to start thinking you're not capable. Everyone always has doubts about their skills. It's okay to doubt your creative element. It's okay to doubt your ability to write. It's okay to doubt your ability to act and perform in front of others. It's okay to doubt your ability to teach. It's okay to doubt yourself. But never let that actually stop you. Never let it cause you to stop believing that you are someone who can do good things.

2. Never stop being humble.

You're not perfect Dan, and you need to remember that. Take a second everyday and look around you. Look at the people all around you. Look at the immense scale that is nature that surrounds you. And then think of all the people you know around the world. Think of those big cities that house millions of people. And then think of those millions of small villages that house people you will never meet. And then remember that this blue planet is one of countless ones among the stars. You are not the center of the universe and never will be. You serve others. You have many things to learn, and many things to give. There is a time for each. Remember your place. Don't let false modesty become another fatal flaw.

3. Never stop working hard.

You want a lot of things Dan. But they aren't going to walk into your hands. You need to reach out and grab them. And chase them. And sweat for them. It doesn't matter if it's writing a story or saving somebody's life. If you want it, you gotta go get it.

So go Dan. Make everything count. Oh, how could I forget.

4. Never forget your friends.

It doesn't matter where they're from. Childhood, high school, church, college, college abroad, random other friends you've met, treasure them all. When they write you, write them back. And when they don't, write them anyway. Because you're blessed buddy. Look at your friends and never forget that.

And don't forget. I like you too. Or at least, I should. =D

your bud,
Dan