Dear Patrick:

My how you've changed. You know, I remember your dreams just as well as you. I remember your 16 year old convictions. I remember your dream of hitchhiking across the states, like in Jack Kerovac's book. I remember your shy little crushes on people you barely knew. I remember YOU.

So how are they coming? I heard your going to college! I heard a lot actually. I heard you write now? Wow, I didn't expect that. How are you going to travel in school man? You gotta remember what I told you, 'Life exists in the stare between to soon to be lovers, and the beat that surrounds them'. You wont be happy in school dude. You might end up... "happy". You know what I mean by that, and it has to scare the shit out of you. What happened? There must be a girl around now, I mean your 18! Did you reason your way out of telling her how you feel about her? She's probably waiting to hear you tell her. Tick-Tock buddy. You know you've got a limited time to experience this little game you've been playing.

It was fun to play together, you and I. We've been though a lot. The drugs, the divorce, the drama with your mom, your dad's drinking, your brother... all that has left you a little different. I bet you feel kind of sorry for yourself sometimes. DON'T!!! They've made you a better man than most people will ever be. You know that girl that you love to talk to? She'd be missing out man. Your just about to start one hell of a ride. Die a happy man, don’t regret not saying anything. Maybe it could be something! Maybe it could be real! Maybe, just maybe, you'll find out one of life's most illusive secrets: True Love. Now I’m not guaranteeing it, but what have you got to loose? I know what your thinking, of course. A friendship. A friendship with a beautiful and smart girl... Yea, sucks don't it. How’s it going for you now though, thinking of her all the time. Bet it drives you nuts.

Anyway, what are you doing next year. You could come and see me if your parents would let you, but I think they want you out. Since that's not really an option, work on something... I donno, change the world or something. Write that book that will inspire thousands. Make love under the stars. Get stoned on the beach and write until you fall asleep again. Just do it. NO GOD DAMN EXCUSES! You know, mom says you have to plan for retirement and have money to support yourself when your older. Wouldn’t you rather have stories? Stories that, when told, bring tears to your eyes. Memories so potent they make your heart yearn for a stronger beat? That will do you more good than any expensive doctor.

Well, anyway, good luck. Don't forget me. I promise to visit.


Love
Your inner child

P.S. I farted heheheheh. C'mon, you used to love that one!