Chase ME
A young boy on the cusp of manhood; completely enthralled with every word spoken. The feelings, thoughts and ideas shared; sitting alone in your room, above the din of the crowd below; drinking games, karaoke, hiding behind the façade; the only truth, yours and mine.
Elated you were; not only in the fact that I grasped your concepts of life, love, relationships and death, but expounded on them as well; giving your young, impressionable mind still more to ponder; the gleam in your eyes priceless; knowing my presence would have a lasting effect, even more so. And that is what fuels your anger. Your belief tainted, your perception shattered.
You recognized the change, as did all those close to him. You thanked me for coming into his life and being such a positive and creative influence; allowing you to finally see him for the first time; a side you never knew existed. The kind, spiritual, talented man, suddenly unafraid to reach inside and examine his soul; no longer a Marine, no more just a dad; but a man capable of embracing life and expressing love; in a way you could finally understand and respect.
You’re a man now; of that there is no doubt; the resemblance so striking that for a moment you took my breath. But that, I believe, is where the similarity dies. A man yes, but still carrying the pain experienced in your youth; consumed with hate and rage, that the mere sight of me ignites.
I will not insult your intelligence by trying to define the nature of our connection; as some things are beyond explanation. It was and is no more. I know that one day you’ll be able to separate yourself, step back and shift your perception; seeing the bigger picture, as well as the flip side of the coin.
If you were truly honest with yourself, you would see that our selfishness and greed had a positive and lasting affect; as they have clearly reconnected and renewed that vow made so very long ago; and if you look really close, you’d see that they’re happier now than perhaps you’ve ever known them to be.
Everything happens for a reason. Hate begets hate. Forgiveness is forgiveness. And I am not the monster as being portrayed. Somewhere deep inside, you know this to be truth. It’s up to you whether or not you choose to accept it.
