Hello John,
Over 14 years ago when I was a teen, I wrote you a message, sharing some of my art (and professed my "half-elf" lineage as many a homeschooled kid was apt to do) and asking for a critique. I mentioned that I was working on a novel and wanted to be an artist and a writer when I grew up. You were kind enough to take the time to look at my art and also send an encouraging message back, intoning my "elven lineage" as part of the reason for talent you saw and playing along with the fantasy I loved and wanted to find myself in. It was a short note yet it has loomed large in my life. I've thought about your message and kindness ever since, carried the generosity of your time and thought with me as I've moved through the world. I'm now an adult (with knees far past my age) and the artist I wanted to be as a child. I'm working on a pitch for my first graphic novel, painting, and writing those worlds I dreamed myself a part of. I don't know if you'll remember me but I wanted to say that I remember you and carry with me your message and goodness like both balm and promise. A little belated, but thank you for giving me my own small “light in dark places, [for] when all other lights go out” to hold onto and lead the way.
With love and thanks—
Han
Over 14 years ago when I was a teen, I wrote you a message, sharing some of my art (and professed my "half-elf" lineage as many a homeschooled kid was apt to do) and asking for a critique. I mentioned that I was working on a novel and wanted to be an artist and a writer when I grew up. You were kind enough to take the time to look at my art and also send an encouraging message back, intoning my "elven lineage" as part of the reason for talent you saw and playing along with the fantasy I loved and wanted to find myself in. It was a short note yet it has loomed large in my life. I've thought about your message and kindness ever since, carried the generosity of your time and thought with me as I've moved through the world. I'm now an adult (with knees far past my age) and the artist I wanted to be as a child. I'm working on a pitch for my first graphic novel, painting, and writing those worlds I dreamed myself a part of. I don't know if you'll remember me but I wanted to say that I remember you and carry with me your message and goodness like both balm and promise. A little belated, but thank you for giving me my own small “light in dark places, [for] when all other lights go out” to hold onto and lead the way.
With love and thanks—
Han