“I was looked at, but I wasn’t seen” – Albert Camus, “The Misunderstanding”

Dear Blaine,

Maybe in another life, free from your mental burdens, you’d find peace and happiness. The timing would be right, and you would let me fall in love with you. But in this life, as my final act of love, I let you go even against my heart.

I picture you evading the weight of guilt that comes with sending those final texts. I want you to know that it takes all of my strength to keep from calling or texting you. My heart longs for you, and I hope you know that every time that I don’t, I am so close to reaching out to you.

You might think I’ve moved on or that I hate you because there’s no response to those last few messages. But have you considered that I can’t reply without worrying about facing another goodbye?

I truly wish you well and I hold no bitterness in my heart for you. Despite the challenges we faced and the moments that tested our connection, I genuinely hope that you find happiness and success in all your endeavors. Life is a journey filled with lessons, and I believe that every experience contributes to our growth. I cherish the good memories we shared and carry those fond moments with me, wishing for your peace and joy as we move forward separately.

I genuinely meant it when I said there is no bitterness in my heart towards you. Meeting you and sharing moments together marked the first time I experienced love beyond my friends and family, and for that, I am sincerely grateful for the beautiful memories and experiences we’ve created.

I choose to view letting go not as erasing the memories we’ve created, but as a transformation into something profound—a deep respect for what we once had and a recognition of our personal growth. Though it may bring pain, I will carry you with me, eternally grateful for the moments we’ve shared.