[Alpha]

Dear self,
Way to forget about what day it was not two days ago for someone very special to you and not being there for them. Just add it to the list of shortcomings. Already a mile long, what does one more matter? When she reads this she will likely say something to you about it, but meh, it is how you feel.

You need to try and let go of that list you have though, at least a lot of it since most of it was put there by your dad and stepmom, both of whom you could never quite do right by unless it was exactly their way. Never mind that they left you with a number of mental scars, such as always feeling the need to apologize since it doesn't seem like anything you do could ever be right or good enough. The physical marks (as few as they were and as long as they lasted) were nothing compared to that little constant reminder in the back of your head. I don't even know why I bother typing this, but whatever. You are done with them, and never have to deal with that again. Enjoy what you have now and make sure that you take care of the ones you truly love and cherish.

Sincerely,
The Voice in the Back of Your Head