An Epistle To A Friend

If ever a monument is to be made in your honor as it pertains to Agape Love and friendship deep within, I make this in your honor as I do so with no regrets and a glad heart. You've always meant the world to me. I've admired you from afar, allowed you to be the star of my dreams, and wondered as I wandered can it ever be? Although you're not here personally to accept this expose, I carry you around in ways that let me know just how much I’ve placed in your direction. I do this with splendor and serendipity. Nevertheless, I hope everything is in order with you as you accept what we have for whatever capacity you deem necessary for us. I will accept it with no complaints. You must know that I've always thanked the Lord as I've remembered you from time to time in my prayers. For in you, the manifestation of doing what is right is being exemplified by your enduring of faith and much hope, I know that you are steadfastingly following your own instinct. It is so good to have shared that same faith (with you) then and now. It was always my custom to call just to let you know that your image was on the periphery of my mind...ever so close, but far enough to know what being missed is all about. Now that I know that you've done the same with me, it gives new meaning to 'shared loyalties'. Your friendship toward me gave me sources of pride knowing that I had access and an audience for your sensibilities. Remember the analogy of the caged bird that returned after being released?

Nevertheless, I know that I've not always been available or accessible, but my mind and heart is in concert as I pledge allegiance to an obligation of collegial importance. Just go to the Love Chapter in the bible and it echoes my sentiment perfectly – “If love is patient, kind, not envious, boastful, arrogant, or rude.... then let this correspondence be a testament for lasting friendship despite the adversity that may accompany our lives, and the distance between us”. As a true friend, I'm asking with much feeling and compassion that you retain within you the philosophy that has governed you to be one of God's children. Don't change. Stand fast and foremost in your beliefs, and most importantly -- follow your mind. Continue to grow reverently in grace and not waver on issues that contain creeping compromises. You must not give one iota of ground to Satan and his imps. You have come this far because you continue to endeavor that someday to dwell forever in His house, and be vindicated for any past misgivings. And I know that you want to do so with that significant other. Over the years I've come know and respect you, and have valued the communicative ties that we've forged. Therefore, I know I can't repay you adequately with as much thanks as you rightfully deserve, but I do feel in the long run that we both will benefit.

Welcome me as you would if we were one. And if I have done you any wrong, have allowed you to feel anger in any way, or owe you anything -- charge me double. Prepare and cultivate a place in your heart for me, as I have done for you so that I may dwell there unconditionally. Your body should be preserved for the one that is worthy of you and what you have to offer. Should that someone be me, I strive to let you know that the choice wouldn't be in vain. For this reason, only should you confine to seek that which is indicative of mutual respect, and reciprocally for happiness to stay grounded. Whatever you do, whatever you think about...do it in the name of, and to the glory of God. We've been taught this by all of God’s parables and tenets. There is no need to worry. But if there's anything you need...if any vestige of homage is to be paid by me to adhere to all of the above! Over, and then let us pray TOGETHER for it. May the serenity of our Savior which is so much greater than we can understand, guard your heart and thoughts. Finally, do not be mired in any type of mental heaviness that would cause you to hesitate, stumble, and procrastinate in not doing the right thing! Chain yourself to the Good News, and let good news be yours.... surround yourself with those that share your goals and may the grace of Jesus Christ be with you in mind and spirit because I LOVE YOU, TOO!

ACR