Dear Aster,

How’s the new name working for you? I know we, or at least I, had plans to keep our original name and use this one as a secondary alias, but you and I both know we’d never be able to use it until we got out of the house. I hope people are using it properly and aren’t making fun of you. Though, I know you wouldn’t care, anyway. You’re stronger than I am- I know that for a fact. You have more experience, more wisdom, more knowledge than I could ever hope to achieve, and I’m okay with that. That’s just how life is, isn’t it? You can’t be old and wise until you’re young and stupid, as Dad always says.

Speaking of Dad…how’s the family? Is our relationship still okay? As you know, they and I have had some…falling-outs. We don’t agree on everything. We argue a lot, and sometimes, I wonder if the words I speak will only be heard once a headstone is placed on the plot of land waiting for me…us. Have they started listening, or is it you who opened your ears more? Whatever the case, I support your decision. I bet you haven’t heard that all that often, at least not sincerely. I know I haven’t. 

How’s college? Is it everything we dreamed it would be, or are you regretting every decision in our life right now? Have you met any cute guys or girls? I know you’ve most likely been focused on your studies and making it to the rest of adult life, but don’t turn down an opportunity when you find it. Don’t forgo your happiness for a little more college credit. I know I may be younger and less experienced than you, but I have my own gold nuggets of wisdom in the coal mine that’s my brain. Make yourself happy first. Easier said than done, I know, but you’ll figure it out. I’m sure you always do.

Truth be told, I don’t know if you’ll ever see this. It’s hard to send a letter to an address that hasn’t been determined yet. But, if you do find this one day, I hope you know that I wish you well, wherever you are at the moment; in a therapist’s office, an officer aboard a Coast Guard vessel, settling down with a couple of adopted kids, doesn’t matter to me. Just be happy, be a good person, and be happy being a good person. 

- Your High School Shadow