I often tell people I work in a vacuum, writing silly things for people to read, but never knowing who is reading them, when, or under what circumstances. Through the years, I've received some nice letters from folks who say they've been reading me "forever" and share a piece of their life with me. But, none of them affected me like this one, which I received yesterday. I asked the writer if I could reprint it here and she said that was fine with her, as long as I deleted her name and town. So, I did...
Dear Mr. Ervolino,
In 2002 I met the man of my dreams after many years of being alone, children don't count. He lived in NJ while I lived in NY. On Sundays we would get together at my place and read the papers before watching the big game of the week. He always read your column out loud to me and we would enjoy your exploits. You have a nice way about you.
Time marched on and in 2005 I moved to [New Jersey]. Through the years he read me your columns and we continued to enjoy them. In February 2008 he had three massive strokes and in June I cleaned out his apartment and permanently moved him to a nursing home. Now it was my turn to read your column to him.
When I wasn't able to visit him we still connected by me reading to him over the phone. We laughed when Jasper wrote your column and prayed when your mom was so sick. Right before Memorial Day he passed away, only 61 years old but we don't get to pick our time.
Your column was part of the glue that bound us and I thank you. I'm only sorry that it took me so long to let you know how much you meant to us.
Be well,
[A Longtime Reader]
What a beautiful letter. My condolences to the writer and I wish her well.
Bill, please add me to the list of longtime readers. Your columns were included in the packages I received during college in Tampa, FL, and now I read you every week at my desk in Rhode Island (and your blog too!). You are my little piece of home I bring on my travels. Thank you for sharing your family with me.
Posted by: Courtney | October 15, 2009 at 01:09 PM
Awww...how sweet! You hold a special place in all of our hearts!
Posted by: Debbie from Lyndhurst | October 15, 2009 at 01:13 PM
Some people live their entire lives never knowing how they affect others. Let's all try to be nicer to those we meet.
Posted by: Cooper | October 15, 2009 at 01:45 PM
The power of the newspaper. Very touching letter.
Posted by: John | October 15, 2009 at 05:42 PM
i hope she reads the blog.
on another subject, what's with the little icons? i hope i get a blue one.
Posted by: lwt | October 15, 2009 at 06:00 PM
LWT - apparently, you did.
Posted by: Evelyn | October 15, 2009 at 06:20 PM
nice, touching...
Posted by: mikeymike | October 15, 2009 at 10:46 PM
green?
Posted by: mikeymike | October 15, 2009 at 10:47 PM
so agree Cooper : )
Posted by: Nutley Nancy : ) | October 16, 2009 at 12:10 AM
Nice icons!
Posted by: Darleen | October 16, 2009 at 06:49 AM
You never know how much the things you do mean to people. So if someone is making your day, please tell them and make THEIR day.
Posted by: Linda | October 16, 2009 at 08:39 AM
What a sweet letter!
Posted by: Michelle | October 16, 2009 at 09:22 AM
Nice letter; condolences to the writer.
Good point Cooper.
Interesting icons.
Posted by: dawniris | October 16, 2009 at 10:24 AM