The next chapter in this story is a very sensitive one. There is someone who may stumble across it someday. I must write something personal to her if she happens to pass this way.
I have only talked to you twice in forty years and the conversations totaled less than 100 words.
Forty years ago you sent me love letters every day while I was in San Diego . . . each one smelled of your perfume and was sealed with a kiss. Before I joined the Navy we had made plans to wed. You were one of virtue and a woman any man would be proud to call his wife. You fell in love with a man who was born under a wandering star and the forces of the universe tore us apart before our dreams were fulfilled.
Be grateful for our demise. I have seen your accomplishments and witnessed the impact you have had on many others. Even from a distance and after so many years it has made me proud to see you in newspapers, on the cover of magazines and on television. I know I would have held you back from your destiny.
I would rather you never see this, but if you should I do not ask for forgiveness. I only want you to know I know how much you loved me and cared for me and though my actions did not reflect it . . . I also loved and cared for you very much.
I never deserved you and you deserved so much more.
’till . . .
David
The Phillip Long Story: Buddies Until Abandoned
- The Graduate was Hot! KOMA was King!
- In the Navy – We Want You as a New Recruit
- Basic Training – First Abandonment
- To the Girl Who Loved Me <- You are Here
- A Cantina in Mexico – Second Abandonment
- Vanished In Tijuana – Fear and Panic
- Phillip Needs Help – We Can’t Tell the Truth
- Thanksgiving Day – A Time for Healing
- The Captain’s Mast of Seaman Apprentice Webster
- Conclusion – Too Much Living to Do