Better off Without Jenna

Dear Alex,1

There's something I need to tell you. I'm not brave enough to do it in person so I'm taking the coward's way out. I hope you'll forgive me. 2

Well, it's just...I don't think we can be together anymore Alex. Understand that this is one of the hardest things I've ever had to do but I think it's for the best. Hopefully you'll understand in time. There's no one else in the picture. You have always been my one and only. I just want you to know that. Ever since you first walked up to me in the hallways. I thought it was a joke to tell you the truth. You were so handsome and popular that I couldn't believe that you felt anything for someone like me. I still can't believe it. But saying yes was probably the riskiest and most wonderful thing that I could have done. I was so afraid to say anything, but something pushed the word "yes" past my cold lips. Now, I can't imagine my life without you in it but I must. All good things must come to an end and this was one of the best things ever to happen to me. Don't ever think that you did something wrong because Alex, you didn't. It is all me. I'm not just feeding you some cheesy line either. It's the truth. You are the best friend and most wonderful date I could have imagined. You are sweet and kind and gentle and considerate and everything I ever dreamed of in a boyfriend. You have always been there for me. Now however, I think that we have been leaning on each other too much. You've been using me as your crutch and I've been doing the same. We are separate people though Alex and I think we now need to go our separate ways. You will do great things in life, I know it. Don't ever doubt your abilities because I have seen what you can accomplish when you put your mind to it.3

I'm sorry Alex that it has to end this way. I only pray that I haven't hurt you too badly. I know that you will survive. You're strong Alex and can survive anything. You'll not only keep going, but you will get stronger and better. Nothing and no one can or should hold you back, least of all me. You are so adventurous and brave and true that I can't bear to have you dragging me along behind you any more. You will fly faster and higher without me. 4

I love you Alex and I hope that you will always remember me fondly. I also hope however that you will find someone else, eventually. Someone who will make you happy and smile, and laugh that wonderful laugh. You deserve to be happy Alex and I don't think that I can make you happy. Don't try to change my mind because it is already made up. Please don't call or email me, it will only make it harder. This is already difficult enough. Trust me, you will be better off. 5

Please, never forget that I loved you, no matter what happens. 6

Always Yours,7

Jenna8

NOTE: Jenna was dying of leukemia at the time she broke up with Alex, her boyfriend of two years. She passed away just before her birthday several months later. Alex never forgot her.