Growing up in Brooklyn, there are certain values that were taught to me at a young age. I was taught that I have to be wary when choosing friends, I have to respect my elders and I have to be careful when walking the streets at night.
As I got older, I followed all of these rules and made sure that I never break them regardless of the situation. For a long while, these were my top priorities throughout everyday life, until one day. I was walking home from the gym when I stumbled across the most beautiful entity I've ever encountered, she was perfect. I immediately went up to her for more information and got her number much faster than I'd expected.
The next day, I called her when no one was home even though I knew the parents would be home soon, however, she was at my front door within minutes; I let her in and the rest is history. Her name was Jade Flower and she was a Chinese restaurant that serves the absolute best fried rice in the city. Now she may not sound like much, however, Jade opened my eyes to the new found love that I had acquired for Chinese food. After meeting her, I was forced to move to Queens and our relationship faded away faster than a fake tattoo. This letter is for her.
Dear Jade,
I just want to let you know that even though our relationship was short-lived, you truly changed my life for the better. You turned me on to new things like sesame chicken and pork fried rice, however I had to leave...I just couldn't stay in that town anymore.
New opportunities arose for me like college and I had to look out for what was in my best interest. I know people say it all the time, but I would've taken you with me if I could. But that wouldn't be practical. You were doing great in Brooklyn and had plenty of people who wanted you. I found a new restaurant right by my place.
Another thing, don't get angry that I'm going to another restaurant because I had a plethora of opportunities to go to different places when I was seeing you and I didn't. Even when my friends said that I can get better food, I still went to you; even when it wasn't convenient. Why did I do that? Because that's what love is Jade and I honestly loved you. Maybe I still do but that's not the point. I've moved on and you've forgotten me for sure.
There won't be any more late night calls when no one is home and there won't be anymore midnight runs to your place but that doesn't mean that I don't care. You were always and forever will be a huge part of my life and I'll never forget that. Maybe one day in the future, we can meet up for lunch.
Your old friend,
Travis Tropeano
