To my friend Tom

[Fredda Weinberg]

I know what causes your anguish and why you seek peace. But it's not allowed for the living; our lot is to struggle and survive.

What you miss is the sense of comradery, but this is the season for cleaning wounds. You know that can entail re-opening old ones ... the ones that never really heal.

And you know that what gets us through this is reaching out. The very act of exposure establishes a trust relationship and experience reinforces the lesson. Your offer of friendship makes you friends - a foundation that will bear any load, any stress.

Whatever happened, is happening or will be ... we met because our principles coincide. You never saw two people less compatible - and more instantly, honestly affectionate.

I would bid you peace, but I know it's a futile gesture. I bid you to participate more wholly and deeply, letting dull ammo bounce off your tough hide while lobbing your own opinions. Forget our differences at the end of the day, because tomorrow - we'll still be here for ya.

[Skittles]

1. Tom has a good friend

:)