Dear Dad,

There is so much I want to say to you. Things I feel you need to hear, things I feel I need to tell you. As per your modus operandi, you bailed before I was old enough to articulate these feelings correctly. And death certainly is a permanent way out. Well done on that front.

So much to say, but for right now, I'll leave you with something that reminded me of you. There isn't a lot I inherited from you, other than a huge portion of my physical appearance, intelligence, and imperfect emotional well-being, but one thing was a passion for music. And the keen interest in the very best music.

This one's for you.

Because of you
I never stray too far from the sidewalk
Because of you
I learned to play on the safe side so I don't get hurt
Because of you
I try my hardest just to forget everything
Because of you
I don't know how to let anyone else in
Because of you
I'm ashamed of my life because it's empty
Because of you
I am afraid

The Daughter Formerly Known As,
Your Buddy