Dear D.,
  Last night as I was sitting there in the food court of the Eau Claire 
centre I was pondering my existence and feeling it to be rather futile.  
I was bemoaning my circumstances.  When I looked at my hands I saw only 
failure.  When I listened for love, I saw only denial.  I was looking 
inside myself for an answer to why I had failed so horribly in all the 
endeavours I had tried for.  I was tired of my continual inadequacy, my 
inability to love well, to listen well, to be patient enough.  And I 
could find no answer that would satisfy.  And so, I cried.  Not 
horribly, or fearfully or desperately, but simply because I felt the 
failure in my hands.  I didn't expect anything to come from it but wet 
cheeks.
   And then I felt a hand on my shoulder, soft, comforting, simple.  At 
first I didn't respond, because the feeling was so necessary, I felt 
myself relax and assured.
    That was your hand.  And although you probably had no idea what was 
going on, it was a blessing.
    And whether or not it makes a difference, I felt I needed to share 
these thoughts with someone and you seemed like the person who should 
hear them.
    I think sometimes the hum of the universe works in very simple and 
very small ways.  Sometimes a miracle is nothing more than a friends 
hand.  Thank you.

    I wanted to give you something last night for your birthday but I 
was so caught up in my own troubles I had forgotten.  Once I figure out 
a good way to transport it...I will bring it to you.
    May you have a joyful year.  May you be blessed in all your 
endeavours!