I want to say thank you for finding the pieces of his broken heart and helping him put them back together.

I’m not sure how much of his past pain he shared with you, or if he told you how certain he was that he would never love again—but thank you for finding what was left of his heart nurturing it back to wholeness.

I want you to know that I take every responsibility for breaking him, and I won’t dare to make excuses, but please know that it wasn’t intentional and it has been the single greatest regret of my life. It is something that would haunt me until the day that I die.

I’m sorry for the fights you may have that seem to come out of the blue because something you say or do triggers a memory of me. I know he will do what he has to prevent this, but some wounds might be hard to erase. Be gentle with him and see the pain behind the anger. Do not allow your love to falter—not even for a second—because he needs it more than you would ever know.

Underneath that strong personality and manly frame is a wounded heart longing to be safe.

Know that he sees every bit of your efforts and is exceedingly grateful for it even if he fails to acknowledge it somethings. He may become distant sometimes; don’t smother him, but make sure he knows that you are there for him. Leaving him alone to his thoughts might be the biggest challenge you face. He probably won’t trust you fully even though he wants to, and I’m truly sorry you have to pay the price for this. Please know this is not because of something you did but rather something that was done to him. He truly wants to and is trying his hardest to believe in you.

Accept his gifts and express gratitude; he is happiest when doing for others. He will seem impulsive at times but that’s what makes him who he is. Some of your best adventures will come out of throwing caution to the wind and living in the moment. Embrace those moments; it will strengthen your relationship. Don’t be afraid to submit to him—he was born to lead!

Find safety in him. Because you will never have to worry whether he will show up or take care of you. Whatever you do, know that he will do whatever it takes to make sure you have what you need. He will always put you first.

Take care of him. Because in putting you first, he may neglect to take care of himself. As much as he is a nurturer, everyone needs to rest and loves knowing where they can find that respite.

Love him the way I failed to—now before it’s too late.

Cherish him and every moment you spend together. Support him in his dreams, in his projects and in his hobbies.

Keep his heart safe.

~