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The Road That Leads To Your Heart: A Short Story
Dear Reba,
It’s been ten years since I last saw you, twenty years since last I danced with you, and thirty years since we first met. But no, Reba, I’m not counting. I’m only reflecting. As time went by, I stayed the same. As you moved out and moved on, I stayed “home”, just as my heart, clinging ever after to the possibility that you and I had a shot—that we had a chance to be with one another. I thought to move on, I really did. I thought to find love thereafter in someone else, to seek happiness where once there was so much of, where now there is so little of. But maybe I was under your spell and so couldn’t commit to another. Maybe I was in love with being in love with you.
So after all these years, I’m no more the wiser than I was back then, albeit ten, twenty, or thirty years ago. The only thing that I’ve learned is that being in love with someone is a promise I cannot break, an emotion I cannot shake, and a feeling I cannot fake. And if I know you like I think I do, then I just made you smile. How I wish could see your smile once again. In my mind’s eye, I see your smile and so can’t help but to smile myself.
I must confess to you that I went out to look for you. I did some searching and researching and finally found you after all these many years and found your hyphenated name. After much deliberation, I thought to come and see you, because I needed to, because my heart told me to, because after you know someone for as long as the two of us have, you and I will never be strangers to each other, no matter where we go or who we end up marrying. Even after seeing all of the evidence in front of me, I had to know, Reba, I had to be sure. My heart insisted that I do and with that said, I listened to the urges of my heart and went to see you after so many years.
In driving out to see you to surprise you, I had nothing but good intentions. I bought you a bouquet of crimson roses not because it was Valentine’s Day, but because they were your favorite. The entire way I thought about all the times two of us shared, throughout the years, having dated our other peers around us. There was that dance back when the two of us were only kids, with not a care in the world. But that night changed everything didn’t it? That was the only time my entire life that I ever felt perfect.
Your house wasn’t difficult to find with the help of my GPS. But it wasn’t my GPS that found you initially. The road that leads to your heart is invisible to the naked eye, but not to me and not to my imagination. I’m letting my feelings find you, through the snow and sleet of the New England winter through miles and miles of asphalt road that would lead me back to you. And in getting closer and closer to you, I can’t help to become excited by the notion of seeing your smile once again, of your golden blonde hair and beautiful blue eyes that compliment your smile. I imagined you crying out to me, “Oh my God! It’s been so long!” just before the two of us embrace once again—reunited again for the first time in a very long time. And in doing so, my thoughts and feelings would hum the words, You did the right thing. You did it.
But that’s not what happened.
What happened instead wasn’t what I expected at all, because just as I was getting out of my car to walk over to your house I saw you and a beautiful little girl who had your eyes and your hair. You were helping her to get into your Volvo that was parked in your driveway. As far as I was, I was still able to see the ring that was on your finger. This little girl said to you,
“Do we have to go, mommy? I don’t really want to go!”
“Yes sweetie, we do. It’s very important that we do. We made a promise, remember?”
You then did something that for all my days I won’t ever forget: You wiped away a tear from your daughter’s cheek and then gave her kiss. It was like something out of a movie only much more believable.
Just then, the snow had turned into rain. Where once I was comfortable with the weather, I suddenly began to get very cold. When you turned to look in my direction, I hid behind my car, like a coward and made sure that I was out of sight. After you had this little girl all fastened to her car seat, you closed the door and got inside. The two of you seemed to be in a hurry to make good on your promise—whatever that may have been, as you then backed straight out of your driveway and drove right pass me without looking at me. While standing there with your saddened bouquet in both my hands, my thoughts went into overdrive. This time, it wasn’t my heart that was doing all the talking:
What the hell were you thinking anyway? Did you really think that she was going to just drop everything in her life, leaving her husband and daughter and just run off with you to the Cayman Islands, dumb ass? Was that your plan?
With no one else around me that I knew of, I said out loud, “What the hell am I doing here?” I looked around me to search for a trash can to throw away your roses but then thought better of it. When I no longer had an answer, I then got back into my car and drove away.
My heart was silenced by everything. Not ever before had I felt so ugly or felt ashamed of almost doing something that I first thought was right. I had become something of a monster, Reba, and for that I apologize. So maybe it was a good thing that we didn’t see each other that day, I don’t know. I’m sure that if your neighbors saw me they grew very suspicious of the guy that was ducking behind his car when you looked over. I’m the guy that’s afraid of little girls I guess.
Until this day, I still have your bouquet of crimson roses, Reba. I’m not sure what I’m going to do with them. I thought about throwing them away dozens of times but just didn’t have the courage to do so. I think that a part of me just can’t bear to see such a thing tossed to the side to die in the cold. Perhaps I want to keep your roses fresh and alive for you for when the two of us see each other again, as impossible as that sounds. I just know that we’re going to see each other again some day, so when that time does come, I’ll be ready to hand them to you. I hope your roses don’t ever die, Reba.
With All My Love,
Dohn.
Dohn's Commentary
Now, if I know my readers well enough, I’m guessing that they (or you, lol) have a lot of questions that need answering and so by supplying this commentary, I hope that I can answer at least some of them. First off, my going to visit Reba Ashkar did not happen. This story is fictional, just not entirely. I've thought of doing so, but didn’t because I think that she is indeed happily married. The last thing I'd want to do is to cause any kind of conflict with her and her husband.
I’m not sure whether or not she has a
daughter or a son, but I’m guessing that she does as she loves children. How do I know this? Because her and I were camp counselors in New Hampshire for three
summers and absolutely loved our jobs.
This story is solely dedicated to her, Reba Ashkar, my first love. I wrote another story called “First Crush: Reba
Ashkar: A Short Story" and a non-fictional piece titled “Unrequited Love: The
One That Got Away.” Both are about her
and so are dedicated to her. "If I Had Wings" also makes mention of Reba as well.
If you haven’t already, please listen to or watch the video I’ve included as it is the exact same song I heard during the last summer her and I saw each other. It means a lot to me that you do as it compliments this story perfectly. Listen to the lyrics and you’ll know why.
I really do hope that this hub is acceptable as a HubMob Hub. If not, I’ll be sure to be hearing from Princessa very soon!
P.S. Thank you for reading this story as I’ve been meaning to write it for awhile now. By the way, I don’t condone cyber-stalking or any kind of stalking for that matter! I hope that you enjoyed reading this.
Dohn
My Other Stories
- First Crush: Reba Ashkar: A Short Story
Its five-thirty on a Friday night in late June at the Westchester Yacht Club and everyone in Dohns graduating class is already there. Dinner will be served at precisely six. Outside, at the bottom of... - Unrequited Love: The One That Got Away
Author's Note: I want to thank my friend and confidante, Fierycj for inspiring me to write this hub. After reading First Crush: Reba Ashkar: A Short Story, he insisted that I contact her and find out her... - If I Had Wings: A Short Story
My family and I came to America right after Jimmy Carter left office. My first American memory arrived at John F. Kennedy airport, where we landed. It was cold in America, I remembered that very... - For the Love of Buddhism: A Short Story
Thinking back, I can still see her now. Shes imperfect but clear in my mind. Shes as clear as the crystal orb that my clouded mind endeavored to envision back then when trying so desperately... - Revenge, Inc. Part 1: A Short Story
There are many factors in which inspired me to write this story and I owe much to some of the current events of the world, certain movies, with its wide range of characters, books, graphic novels, and... - See You in the Bahamas: A Short Story
Victor sits across from me at their dining room table wearing his linen napkin as bib. A few times, I sat on that same chair. Between us is a carved pork roast atop a wood slab accompanied by very large... - Nancy : A Short Story
It was a voice hed heard long before calling his name that he faintly heard while working. Customers frequented the grocery store he worked en masseso much that he grew accustomed to filtering out the... - The Absence of Aurora: A Short Story
It was in that year that he left Aurora. Before he did, he envisioned another life. He believed this to be the best move. With her voice still fresh in his mind, he heard her whisper on occasion to him, or... - Escape: A True Story
Escape By Khamfone Paditsone Tr. dohn121 Author's Note: To eliminate some confusion, my father is narrating this story not me In the summer of 1945 during the end of the World War II, my father Dohn was...
Comments
- Author
Yes! I remember you! I'm sorry I didn't respond sooner. My apologies. So, I hope you're back. As you can imagine, I've been busy and far away from HubPages. However, I do check back time and again. Talk to you soon!
Hi sir, just been directed here, by Blondepoet, i wonder if you remember me..... You knew me when i was Poet Lorraine, and look i think i visited this before quite a few times.....
- Author
Hi Sylvia. I'm so sorry that it took me(gulp) over a year to finally respond and approve your comment! Yes, I am on FB. Please email me and then we can connect. Thank you so much for the comment as I couldn't ask for more. Again, my apologies for not responding! I'm slowly catching up to all of my comments now :(
Wow - I've stopped by so often because I missed you dohn. Finally made the time to stop missing and truly visit. This is one of the most masterful, heartfelt pieces I've ever read! Had to immediately post on my fb wall for all to enjoy. Are you on facebook?
Thank you for this. I will continue to truly visit more often to be sure. Much love, Sylvia
- Author
Thank you so much, ladyjane1. It's great to hear that you too share a similar experience. This story didn't actually happen, but it well could have. What actually did happen was in another story of Reba Ashkar, in "Unrequited Love" (which I wrote). We never forget our first love and sometimes we are simply romanced by the idea of what our love can be or should be. I learned so much in my life and my only regret is that I didn't learn it much sooner. But then of course everything does in fact happen for a reason. It's simply up to us to realize what reason that is. Thanks for reading me. I really appreciate the fact that you could empathize with this story.
Hello dohn121 I have seen you around quite a bit and I don't have an excuse to not have fanned you by now so I will just apologize, I think your hub was lovely, sad and very well written. I actually did look for the one that got away and it turned out almost the exact way but it helped me to recover and finally get over him and I started to live my life without thinking about that lost hope that we would one day reunite. Sometimes it just isn't meant to happen. My experience was much like that song about being greatful that the one got away because they weren't what they used to be or what you remembered them to be. Well anyway, really like your work and so you can consider me a fan. Thanks for a lovely read.
- Author
Oh, Freya...Forgiveness granted :D I wanted to see your reaction to this and I finally got it! Thanks so much for coming over and reading this once more. I just knew that you'd like it. I believe that it took a great deal of courage to just come out and tell her how I felt about her so that I could move on with my life in so many ways. Much of the stories that I have of her is in fact true. To be able to share it with you and everyone else is certainly a blessing in itself. I'm so happy happy that you enjoyed reading this and my other stories. It means a great deal to me that people actually care enough to do so. Thank you.
P.S. You are not silly. You just happen to care ;)
Hi, Dohn, I'm visiting this one again. :p
The reason why I don't really 'in' with this one because it is story about Reba Askhar, the one you already explain in another Hub as the one who rejected your hand. I hate to see sadness in this one and thinking this is real. But it doesn't mean you not wrote in in wonderful way, Dohn. In fact, "The road that leads to your heart is invisible to the naked eye, but not to me and not to my imagination." I love this line a lot! You are really gifted in these.
Just to think she caused you pain, made me did not able to put comment before. Please forgive me! ^_^ It simply because I'm silly. Hahaha....
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Don't think I've forgotten who it was that posted the first comment here! Thanks, Brenda :)
- Author
Thank you, i*n*v*i*c*t*u*s*. Reba Ashkar has certainly been an integral part of my life and always will be. Through my writing, my memory of her will live on no matter how our paths diverge or converge. I appreciate your comment!
Wow this truly is popular......
Well, of course, I love this.. such a beautifully written 'saga.' Really felt how you hung your heart out and I so feel that having such love for anything or anyone keeps us in line to surge forward in plights in life... across time and seas... Lovely. :)
- Author
Thank you so much for that, Lisa. I think that you nailed the nail on the head with your comment as it was bittersweet for me to recall my situation with Reba Ashkar in which I created a short story from. Thank you for reading this. It means a lot to me.
This is so beautifully written. It is very touching,and also sad at the same time. This has to be my favorite article that I have read on hubpages.
- Author
Thank you so much, mtsi1098. Yes, there are a few hubbers out there that would've certainly done something different were it them that was standing where I was "standing." I'll certainly let you know if and when Reba and I do talk!
dohn121 - This is a great story and I could not help to think what I would do in this position...Nonetheless, we done and do let us know if you ever reconnect :)
- Author
Hey, UK. Yeah, Reba really had/has a hold on me. I just recently found her on Facebook by the way, so maybe the two of us will chat someday soon! It's great to hear from you again.
It is amazing how someone can impact our lives so much that we carry them with us forever. I enjoyed reading this story.
- Author
Thank you so much, habee! Yes! Even to this day, Reba won't ever let me forget her!
- Author
Wow, thank you so much, Al. I'm a very harsh critic when it comes to my own work. I love sharing with others, and that's exactly why HubPages is the perfect outlet for me! Your comments are just too much, my man! It's a good thing I'm so modest, haha. As always, I thank you for not only reading and so supporting my work, but for the such incredible comments, my friend!
- Author
Thank you, sophs! I sure do hope so too! It's just a matter of time, I guess.
Wonderful story, Dohn! The first cut is the deepest, my friend.
Bro...It moved me. I needed to change the direction of Revenge,Inc. Because I was getting angry at society, Nahh! I am only kidding! It was refreshing, and even being fiction you must have pondered and dreamt about it before you put it in writing! You can`t help it, man! You are a romantic at his best, and a good one at that I may add! You have a way with words, Dohn, my brother! It is poetic. No belittling yourself with things like "Are you sure, Brenda? I really didn't think this was beautiful :(". It was quite good! See... I am not trying to boost your ego or anything of the sort! You CAN write and that`s that period!
Two thumbs up and a dozen bouquets of crimson roses to go along with it!
Warm regards, my brother,
Al
Ohhhhh this brought a tear to my eye :-( you will find another reba one day! :-) great hub!
- Author
Thank you for that callmefoxxy. I had fun writing this. One day, I think that she will read this.
A deep and very touching fiction. Bravo.
callmefoxxy, my pen is a mighty sword!
- Author
@Ultimate Hubber-Thanks UH! I appreciate the comment! Will do!
@stephensaldana-Thank you so much for that! I really ran with this story. Reba Ashkar no doubt means a lot to me and this is one of the best ways I know how to pay tribute to her. Thanks again, my friend.
Marvelous hub!!! The clarity and balance shine from this hub. The contents displayed are superb and can be regarded as close to perfection. The story of Reba is simply effortlessly- classic. Thanks a lot for providing such a wonderful hub.
A sad but nice ending to a nice story. Keep the good work up Dohn.
- Author
Thank you for reading this, H C Porter. It means a lot that so many readers were affected by my writing--whether fictional or not. I appreciate your comment and support. Thank you!
- Author
Hahaha! Shame about the pen and paper at the zoo, apricot! I do have quite an imagination, don't I? Throughout my life, I've been told,"You're quite a character" and so I ran with it :D Why not make myself a character in my stories right? I mean with most of my stories, when it comes to first person narrative, I'm writing with myself and my opinion in mind anyhow.
I'm flattered by your response, apricot. Maybe you should have broken more hearts so that way, truckloads of letters would then get dumped at your doorstep :D I think that one day, she will get to see the "shrine" of works dedicated to her (I did find her on Facebook by the way). All in good time, I guess ;)
Thank you again!
Wow-I enjoyed reading this,even though me eyes are blurred with tears, but hey- that's part of what makes it so good-the ability to effect from within. Thanks for sharing this.
HC PORTER
Ah, Dohn! I know the feeling! I sometimes wonder what happened to my exes but I don't think they'd be as beautiful as Reba- far from it- in fact if I wanted to track them down I think the zoo would be the best place to start!
I'm glad you put in your commentary - that kept me happy and I feel better now I've read your wise words! Wherever Reba is I think she'll feel very flattered that someone is writing such beautiful stories about her - I certainly would if I knew any of my exes were writing anything even vaguely comprehensible about me. But I fear they don't allow pens and paper in the gorilla section of the zoo. Sigh.
Lovely read!
- Author
Thank you, tipperary! Thank you for the comment and for the suggestion. I'm not sure whether or not I'll go that route, but if it's any consolation, the real "Reba Ashkar" really did "friend" me on Facebook less than a week ago. Whether or not that's coincidence is beyond me. Funnier things have happened. Perhaps once her an I touch base, I'll write a hub about it! I especially like how you suggested too that I visit her in "fiction" form :D Thank you!
Brillant story, really enjoyed it, i really think you should visit Reba (in real life or in fiction ) or you will give a lifetime wondering. I will come back for part 2, and hopefully a happy ending!
We are all waiting to read what happens next!
- Author
Thank you for the comment/compliment, VioletSun! I have to wonder whether or not it was mere coincidence that she friended me on Facebook only 2 days after I wrote this piece. The truth of the matter is that I friended her about 2 months ago (she well could've been busy I guess).
I learned at a very early age the power behind words and have since worked hard at my craft. She was one of the reasons why I chose to write :) How cool is that?
Thank you so much for reading this. I really do appreciate it.
Dohn: Sigh, your story was tugging at my heart strings; couldn't wait to find out what happened when you met Reba, and felt an achy tug when you described her getting in the car with her little girl and you standing in the snow with the roses, which you have kept. Whomever is your partner is lucky to have a man that is not afraid to love and express love.
Enjoyed reading this; you are one talented writer. Just read your comment she friended you in Facebook. Coool! :)
- Author
Thank you, WWS. I did in fact send her a letter in 2001. If you have the time, please read this:
https://hubpages.com/literature/Unrequited-Love-Th...
It details the letter I sent her and what transpired after wards. Coincidentally she "Friended" me on Facebook last Sunday believe it or not, but I hadn't the courage to speak to her yet!
Thank you so much for the advice!
This was a beautiful but heartbreaking story. Have you considered sending her a letter? I don't think she would be offended by a letter.
- Author
Thank you, antonrosa. I appreciate it.
Very touching and thoughtful!
- Author
@charanjeet kaur-Thank you so much for that! I enjoyed writing this story and enjoy even more the responses it received. I'm overwhelmed!
@wavegirl22-My comment is that I have no comment about my trouble-making ^_^ You're amazing, Shari! I'm only as good as I have to be :D (((HUGS)))
O-ditto on the meeting you . .. and yes i can tell you must have been quite the troublemaker as a kid. . somehow something tells me you still are ;)
xoxox
shari
Dohn what an amazing gift you have to be able to use words in the way you just have. Indeed a very well put together hub i could not miss a line of what you wrote. Amazing and beautiful!!!
- Author
@the rope-Thank you so much for that! I was pleasantly surprised to have won such a prestigious award here at HP. I'm blessed with many friends and followers that take the time to read my material. It's a pleasure to be here.
@James A Watkins-Thank you, James! This was a good exercise and felt good to finally let out as I've been meaning to share this "story" for some time now. The responses has been tremendous. It's wonderful to hear that you enjoyed it.
Ah . . . life and love. What a world we live in and what a world the heart inhabits. I surely enjoyed your fine prose here, my friend. You are one excellent writer.
Dohn - what a wonderful story - with or without the commentary. The award was well deserved! Thank you for sharing such an intimate part of your famous imagination!
- Author
@Dolores Monet-Thank you so much for that, Dolores! There really isn't anything else I like more than writing fiction. I have an obvious fascination with creating, I guess. The award was a bit of a surprise and I was amazed by the results. Thank you, I appreciate it :)
@lctodd1947-Thank you for the response!
@hiddenfire-I really do appreciate that, thank you :D I wholeheartedly agree.
@wavegirl22-You have to stop making me blush, Shari! Thank you so much for reading me. It's so encouraging to hear such words from those I admire. One of these days, I'm going to write about my vivid imagination and how it all got started (I really was a troublemaker as a kid). We do share a lot in many things. I'm so happy that I met you, Shari. xox
O...I read this yesterday but I had to come back and read it again. . i love how you can express your words. . you have this knack to taking me wherever it is you go , ,I felt as if I was standing in that driveway with you and I saw her put her little girl in the car and I could hear your heart beating out of your chest , , i wanted to wipe your brow but i didnt want to ruffle the leaves. .. you are a man of my heart. .. but you knew that already.
And add to it all.. our music is always so in synch is amazes me , but that is not a surprise
very lovely... i wish I am Reba.. its very fortunate to be loved that way...
Very nice and with sweet sentiment.
Dohn - one of the best ways, they say, to kick start a fiction piece is to ask yourself the question 'what if...'
You did a great job. It was a moving piece. Congratulations on being the best fiction hubber! You deserve it!
- Author
@rmcrayne-Thank you, Rose Mary. Yes, I did change the name (in a clever way, might I add). I wouldn't do anything consciously to hurt or harm anyone literally. Thanks for the inquiry and thank you for reading this!
@Martin V-Thank you! :D
@Bail Up!-Thanks again, Bail Up! That maybe so...I wanted you, the reader to decide for yourselves what it meant. I appreciate your reading this! Thank you!
@Keira7-Thank you as always, Keira! It's always great to hear from you as I always look forward to hearing your comments. I hope that you and your family is well, "Reba." :D Thank you!
@Run Down Battery-Thank you so much for the compliment, Jeff. Love the philosophy! Great stuff, my man. Thank you.
@Lady _E-Thanks, Lady_E! Oohhh...Many an arrow have I've been struck and the arrows I wish would struck has not struck :( That would be pretty cool ;) Thanks! xox
Crickey - Very touching. I could picture the story as I read it. Wish I could play Cupid b/w you and Reba.
Best Wishes.
Good intentions and expectations have always been my downfall in love. A sensitive piece beautifully woven. Thanks, as ever... Jeff
Hello my dear good friend, some members of my famyly and friends call me Reba.:) When I read the name I thougth it was a hub for me. Lol. Beautiful story my friend. Thanks for sharing. As you ready know, I love the way you write. Have a great weekend bro.:)
I was secretly hoping you would follow her to that important place she had to go to. Maybe it was the fathers weekend with the little girl :) There's always hope.
Anyways, as usual, great story.
good hub!
Nice sentimental story Dohn, and thanks for the commentary. I'll have to read your other Reba stories. I hope you changed the name to protect the innocent?
- Author
Thank you so much for that. Like I said before, I've been wanting to write this story for quite a while now. I'm happy to have finally done so. To share with others my writing has always been a dream of mine. If I don't ever publish a book, I'll be happy nevertheless to have at least found this wonderful community of such great supporters and writers. Thank you again!
Very touching story Dohn and akthough your commentary clarifies much, and although fictional, the aspects of it are real. Love is truly entoicating and makes you do many things that you normally would not do. The essense was there and you did it beautifuly and sadly at the same time. The one that got away, the thing with that is that you are left with the wonderful memories not knowing if it was really "The One".. Great job!
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LOL. I hope that you can get that computer soon, DM. I wonder if you maybe caught a virus? Gosh, here's me sending my hopes and prayers to you, buddy. Thank you ;)
HAHAHAHHA!!! Dohn, it was you who spoke/wrote those words....and believe it or not, I read a helluva lot more then I comment. oh, and I don't own a car? I go to the public Library once a week for the kid's school, but rarely use their computer, as that time is intended for something else. But I've got money saved for a new computer, hopefully I'll be all set up by the end of March. Have a good weekend guy!! Hugs. ;)
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@andromida-Thanks so much for that, my friend. I really did expect a ton of questions to be thrown my way, so I guess that it really was a good idea on my part to have included the commentary :D Yes, sometimes make-believe is much better than the real thing as it's a lot more fascinating-unfortunate as it may be :( I appreciate the compliment as always. Best to you too!
- Author
Oh DM, that really stinks! That would really drive me nuts if that happened to me. However, I do still have the Public Library as back-up and then there's my smart phone as well, although I hate using it to write hubs as it's a task.
You know I like to help people and if ever you need any advice/help/swift kick in but for motivation, you know where to find me! xox
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@girlpower-Thank you for sharing your story as well. There really is a romanticism and truthfulness to unrequited love. It has to do with regret and a lot of fantasy. That's probably the best way that I can describe it at least. I can understand what you mean about ditching the person you're currently with to rekindle a past love interest. What if it doesn't work out? I mean, the person you knew years and years ago might not be the same person! You never really know. My hunch is to just follow your heart (literally) and the answers will be waiting for you!
I really do appreciate you reading this. Without all of those that do read my work, I wouldn't be so quick to publish any of my hubs. Thank you.
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@poetlorraine-Thank you, Brenda. It looks like everyone here shares your same sentiments! Thank you for being the first to post and for speaking out for all of us! You're my rock, my friend :D
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@Cris A-Thanks for that, Cris. It really means a lot to hear that. I'm hoping against hope that the person that I do want to be with wants to be with me. Sure, I do wish that things were easier, but shouldn't the best things in life be difficult to attain? I think so :D So with that said, Rayna H. Hurman, are you listening?
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@TFT-Thank you for that. Everything does happen for a reason. After I did reveal to her how I felt (ala my Unrequited Love Hub) I was crushed by her response, but knew that it was necessary for me to do so (tell her how I felt). I do still love her but have moved on. I appreciate your reading this.
Beautiful story,though I had a few questions,but I found you answered all in your commentary.Fictitious stories always sound better to me than the real ones.I just feel that still she is your greatest strength and you always love to keep her vivid in your heart. And I must mention-"The only thing that I’ve learned is that being in love with someone is a promise I cannot break, an emotion I cannot shake, and a feeling I cannot fake"-reflection of a beautiful mind.
I have been trying to get back here for 2 days!! I hate my computer!!! I just wanted to say that yes, you have helped me more then you could know. You do have quite a bit of wisdom, ya know? Thank you.
what a fine piece of writing, you put your heart into this one. it made me think of a long lost lover who wrote to me after 30 years and wanted for me to write to him or call. I never did, i left the letter unopened for two months and when i opened it he admited that i was the only one he ever loved and that he wondered why i never came to him after my divorce.He used my high school reunion book to hunt me down and i was surprised that he still had feelings for me after all these years. I just cant bear to call him or even write, i am in a great relationship and i just dont want to answer him and yet...I too decided not to go there. But i wonder what he thinks of me now that i hurt him one more time by not writing. Perhaps he thinks i moved and never got the letter but it is still some unfinished business that i chose not to re open the wound. But still i wonder? your story struck a chord of truth, that sometimes its best not to know. girlpower another one of your literary groupies
oh yes dohn i think this is a beautiful piece of literature, by any ones standards. It is exceptionally good.
It's a very brave thing to do dohn, wearing your heart out on your sleeve like that. And it's a love that even dared speak its name. (Sigh)
Anyway, I know somebody's waiting for you. Keep the faith. In the meantime, live love hub! :D
Great work on a tough subject Dohn, I'm sorry that she is the one that got away for you. Excellent story as always. I wish you the best.
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Ha! Thanks, Dave for the compliment. I really do appreciate it. Reba's got some kind of hold on me, I swear. It was always tough for me to speak to, no matter what age we were. Writing this is a lot easier than actually speaking to her, I assure you! Thanks for reading this bro.
I don't know what I can say that hasn't already been said. I could see myself standing there watching the story unfold. Dohn, you have a way with words and imagery that is astounding. We all have a story about the one that got away, major props for the courage to share it.
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@Pamela N Red-Thank you, Pamela N Red. My means to an ends to my writing is to be as honestly can. To hear such wonderful comments makes it worth my effort!
@cosette-Thank you, cosette. This story was a long time coming. I'm happy that I'm finally able to share it ;)
@Pamela99-Thank you so much, Pamela99. The responses have been tremendous. I can't thank you guys enough for coming over and reading this! I means a lot.
dohn, There is nothing unique to add from your other commenters. It was an excellent story, as always.
this hub made my heart go weak in the knees. sublime, Dohn...
That was beautiful, Dohn. I especially love, "The only thing that I’ve learned is that being in love with someone is a promise I cannot break, an emotion I cannot shake, and a feeling I cannot fake."
Writing from the heart is the best kind and sometimes the hardest.
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Great analogy, IslandVoice. My problem is that I'm not quick enough :( But those days are gone. I'm not the shy boy I used to be. I'm no longer scared of hot and drop dead gorgeous women anymore. I wish I could've been this way in my past!
"I could've been a contender" LOL.
If you don't know it yet, you are one. I'm married to one and i feel lucky! Re your Q:It's like picking fruits in the market, the best and yummiest don't last. You gotta be 'quick' when you find the one you like.
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@katyzzz-LOL, Thank you katyzzz. I absolutely floored by how many of us have unrequited loves out there. Thanks for the compliment ;)
@emievil-Thank you so much Emie (I'm sorry about breaking your heart :( Like I said, I think that her and I will see each other, just not on romantic terms or anything, mainly because our families share a very long history with one another. It really is just a matter of time. I'm actually pretty close to her mother as well, but haven't spoken to either of them for a while (ten years now). I'll definitely let you know if something changes :)
@ripplemaker-Hello Michelle! Thank you for that. In writing this, I found that my feelings for her are still very much alive. I don't think I ever will stop loving her. Thank you for reading this!
@Justine76-That person that spoke to was very wise. It literally took me years to move on. But what I found was that being miserable is a choice and that happiness is also a choice. Once you realize such, the next stage of your life can well begin. Thank you for reading this DM, even if it made you cry. I hope that I helped you in some way.
@Petra Vlah-Yes, that's right--You did read that story. She's pretty important to me, not to mention she's very pretty too :D Thank you so much for reading this!
@anginwu-Thank you very much, anginwu! We certainly don't ever forget our first love and it seems that with the passing of time, they stay young and beautiful and become ever more appealing to us...I wonder why that is? Yes, I don't recommend any of us to do what I hypothetically did here. It could certainly make for much conflict. Being an adult prevents us from doing so :D Thank you again for sharing your thoughts and for reading this. It means a lot.
Donh, this is totally poignant and hauntingly beautiful. How can we forget our first true love? They occupy a place in our hearts that time may not heal. I, too, left my first true love in Singapore and to this day, he pops up in my dreams. I want him to go away, but he never does. Sometimes, love isn't enough--chasm of circumstance, of forces beyond us dictate the outcome.
I feel your pain--hopefully, time can ameliorate the ache. I hope another "Reba" shows up--you deserve the best the world can offer.
Thanks again for the lovely story.
Dohn,
This is such a lovely story and it seems so real. I do remember Reba from your other story (If I had wings); paying tribute to your first love is great
well, I tried to not read this, as I am about fed up with love and romance and Valentine's day. Sorry, if that sounds harsh. My heart is breaking for all the people sitting around, waiting for "the one" to wake up and realize all they ever wanted is still sitting here, waiting for them to come back. Somebody pretty smart once said to me..."The business of progress is progress and if you and (s)he were meant to be together then it will happen, but it's not fair for you to have to wait on his(her) terms, as much as you want to be with him.(her) You have to remember to live." Its good, sad, hard advice. I know your not really waiting, its more about letting go, but Im sorry it has to hurt so much. Beautifuly written Dohn. Im glad I read it, even if it did make me cry. :)
I am sighing...Oh dohn! Well, you are not alone, I've been down that road too but have found my peace. I know you have... :) It's a touching story and a piece of you in there. Thumbs up!
My heart was breaking when I read the story Dohn. I can just imagine you standing on the street looking at her and her daughter. I know it's not true but I know that you believe it could very well be. I do hope you will find her again and soon.
My goodnes it took a lot of patience to get down here. Well done, dohn, it looks like you won a few hearts along the way.
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@Jess Killmenow-Thanks, Jess! I really do appreciate it. Thanks for reading this.
@Philipo-Thank you, Philipo! I did the best I could with this one.
Great. Very nice. Thanks for sharing a story straight from the heart.
Poignant and heartfelt, enjoyable and well written. Thank you
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Thank you so much, RedElf. She really is and for as long as I'm alive, I won't ever forget her.
Lovely story, dohn. She must be a special lady to have inspired such steadfast regard.
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@IslandVoice-*blushes* Thanks, IslandVoice! How come all the good ones are always married??? I'm a hopeless romantic? Since when? LOL. I'm glad you liked this one!
@Rose West-No, I definitely understand what your saying, Rose. Sometimes certain situations should just stay open-ended, that way there's room for hope :D Thank you so much for reading this!
@Tatjana-Mihaela-Thanks so much, Tatjana-Mihaela! I think that all our dreams are somewhat meaningful somehow or way. But if he can't find the way to your house with or without GPS, he's not worth your time LOL Isn't your "dream guy" also your current boyfriend? :D Thank you as always!
@Mckenzie-That's really sweet of you for saying that, thank you! I think that when the time is right, I will be with my soulmate. It's just a matter of time. I don't think at present she realizes it now, but I think that she will soon. Thank you so much!
@juneaukid-Thank you so much for that! I've been so busy slashing people with katanas that this part of me had to be brought back a moment ;) I appreciate it.
@Beth100-Thank you Beth! I'm amazed by all the responses so far. Wow. Thank you for that and Happy Valentine's Day! (((HUGS)))
@hypnodude-Thanks so much for that. For now, I do have more sad stories than happy ones, you could say. I share in your same thoughts and yes, it will happen. I think that the longer I wait, the better it'll be. I hope that I'm not wrong ;) Thank you again!
Great story dohn. You're really a great writer, and thanks for being a kind of fella this Valentine's day, so I'm not the only one with a kind of sad story. :)
Btw I believe that if something has to happen it will, most of the times, maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but who knows what's around the corner? And if it doesn't then usually it's better so. Great well written hub.
You're always pulling on my heartstrings Dohn! *wiping tears away* True love lasts forever, as do loving memories. So sweet you are! Happy Valentine's Day! xoxo
I enjoyed reading this very down-to-earth story with emotions that most of us can identify with. Thanks for creating this hub.
Dohn, it was wonderful to see you open up and reveal your heart in this hub. I am sure there is some young lady out there who is just waiting to be loved by such a deep and caring young man with a heart like yours! Make sure she is your soulmate .. never settle. Opps! sorry about that ... the mother in me just popped out. ((smiles and hugs!))
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