A Letter to My Exes

Dear Exes,

It's been a while since we've talked. Some of you I hope to never speak to again, others have drifted apart since our lives have taken us different directions.

I hope this letter finds you well and that you are happy in whatever you are doing. I hope you've found someone that makes you happy and are doing things you've always wanted.

I'm writing this letter because I wanted to thank you for what you've done for me. Many of you have taught me not only how to love someone else, but also how to love myself. In a broader sense, that's pretty much the reason I'm not with any of you any more, if we are being completely honest here... 

In one way or another, you each have taught me something special. I've learned not to take shit from anyone. I've learned that I am strong person who does not need to rely on another person to do things for me. I've learned that I can be happy alone. I've learned that love shouldn't hurt physically. I've learned that love shouldn't abuse you emotionally. I've learned that I am worth more than what you used to tell me. I've learned that first and foremost I need to love and put myself first, instead of bending over backwards for someone who didn't even seem to notice I was there. But most of all, I've learned that everything happens for a reason.

Yes, I used that cliche here, but it's true. Honestly, I always had my life planned out. For a long time, I thought I would be married to you with a house and kids, living life as a freelance photographer. Then, I thought I would be living in this area for the rest of my life, probably miserable since I had never gotten to travel the world the way I had wanted to. Now, I realize I don't have to change my plans for anyone. The right person won't make you change your direction for them. They will support and love you, no matter where you choose to go.

So like I said, I wanted to thank you for teaching me these lessons. They were not easy to learn, but they were necessary. I was young and naive, I was a drunk, I was a mess, but now I'm taking the steps I need to in order to better myself and be the best person I can be. And I couldn't have done it without you.

Thanks again, wherever you all are,

Me