Dear Saint Louis,

I have known you my whole life. The only place I've called home for the past 21 years. You've seen my first steps, my first words, my first heartbreak, and everything in between. You've lead me to appreciate the finer things in life; the intangible things no one else can truly understand. I know it's easy for people to throw shade at you, and I admit i'm guilty as well. But things are different now. I've come to realize all you have done for me. You see, Saint Louis, you're not just a town or a dot on the map to me. You're my safe haven and place of comfort.

Except for the longest time I couldn't wait to leave you. I would constantly complain about you and wish you and I were never connected at all. I dreaded your cold winters and found every possible way to escape during the summer. But through out all of this, you've taught me about beauty. See STL, you really are wonderful, but people don't give you enough credit. Many people envision the appeal of a city to come from the number of buildings, or the skyline view at dusk. But that's not where I see your light. The beauty I see, the true image you've shown me, is the little things. Saint Louis, I love your fall. Outsiders won't relate until one strolls through The Gardens, takes a jog in Forrest Park, hikes in Castlewood, or takes a bike ride on the Katy Trail. It is then one sees that STL is one of the most picturesque places in the country.

You've shown me family, what it means to be friendly and supportive of one another. I will admit Saint Louis, that you gave me my first true love, The Saint Louis Cardinals. Oh baby- I fell hard for the team. As a little boy, I was amazed by Mark McGuire, Fernando Vina, Mike Matheny, Jim Edmonds, and many others. I was obsessed with the old Busch Stadium and cried myself to sleep when it was torn down. But the new stadium, wow! I have never appreciated a sports stadium so much. I fell in love with the fresh cut grass, the smell of hot dogs and peanuts, even all the other fans cheering for the same team I adored. That's what's so special about you; Saint Louis, you've taught me about community.

As I sat in the beloved Scottrade Center last night, watching our Blues beat the Blackhawks in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs; I experienced an immense amount of pride for our city. As I walked back to my car it felt just like a movie. It was surreal. Fans were yelling and cheering for our team, OUR city. Even though we were all strangers, it didn't matter. We all hail from Saint Louis and cheer by side by side. Saint Louis, you have shown me that it doesn't matter who you are, or what county you are from, because in the end, we're all from the good ol' 314.

Lastly, great Saint Louis, you've created who I am. I wouldn't be the same today if it hadn't been for you. You've taught me unique lessons no "big city" could offer. You've strengthened me, and given comfort when I most needed it. As I've grown up you have been there right by my side. Even though you aren't a included in some of my dreams, you've supported me anyways.

As I continue to progress it saddens me to think you might not be a part of my future. I don't know where I will end up. I don't know if I will make my way back to you eventually. What I do know is our bond will never change. The familiar faces, memories and first loves will remain.

No matter where life takes me, you will always be home.

My 314.