Hi Bouncer,

This letter doubles as a love-note and a "thank you" letter. I wanted to start by saying thanks. You taught me the meaning of more than just friendship. You were able to show me what it means to truly be in love. What you gave me was more than just goofy child-like love though, it was the deepest bond I've ever had with anyone. Your loyalty and love for me showed through your constant care for me and desire to be around me. I took it for granted when I had you, and now that I don't, I miss that feeling. Thank you so much for teaching me that love is a real thing, more-so than just a temporary affair or a "flash in the pan" for lack of a better phrase. You showed me that it can be something that is constantly growing and evolves as the relationship continues. You showed a love that only my parents have shown me, but with you, it was on a different level. Thank you.

I want you to know that I love you. Even though you're not with us anymore, your presence is still felt everywhere. At home, I look at the yard and see you chasing after a squirrel or playing fetch. I see you running laps around the big oak tree in the front yard, playing hide-and-seek with me. You'd lap around the tree and I'd stay just out of view, and you'd keep running for me until you would catch me or start to cry. I remember you on my runs when you were older, always a step ahead of me. You pushed me to keep up and kept me motivated. I remember you laying next to me in my bed when you and I were both young and afraid of the dark, but we both kept each other safe from the monster under my bed or in my closet.

The bond that I had with you was something I may not ever have again. You were beyond being a friend or family, you were a part of me. You were just as goofy and light-hearted and full of energy as I am and you managed to be there for me through all of the hardest parts of my life. You hold a place in the deepest part of my heart now and always will, and you taught me how to live. I hope to be as kind, loving, and good-natured as you are. You set a high standard, and I hope that I can get close to the same selflessness and commitment in the other relationships I have in my life. You're an awesome dude, Bouncer. I will always love you.

I know that you'll never see this, but if anyone deserves to be recognized for their impact on another person's life, it's you.

I love you so much. Goodbye, buddy.

Davis