“It allowed me to feel what unconditional love feels like, where there might not be anything in it for you, but this person is experiencing a great life accomplishment and life path…”

– Jamme

“Those moments when…he’s off…it’s like, ‘Okay, I can let go and have the ability to love you no matter what, no matter where you are.’”

– Larisa

“Unconditional Love”

Fiction Based on the Feeling of Loving Someone Deeply

Dear Jimmy,

You’re doing so well in your goal. You can shoot a basket like the pros – which is what you’re aiming for. I believe in you, in your talent. Sometimes I forget to tell you this. And it’s starting to show – to me at least. I have no interest in your sport. I’m not a sportsy person. But for you I listen. I try to learn the game because it means a lot to you. And you mean a lot to me.

When you win, I’m so proud of you and when you lose I try to play it off so you don’t sulk. I know if you go pro it’s a profession, but I want you to have fun. I don’t want you to lose the joy you have in the game because you’re trying too hard to be perfect.

I don’t see you play often and for that I’m sorry. I don’t find the joy you do in it and I worry that you’ll see I’m bored, and it will bring your mood down. I don’t want that because if you lose the guilt that you played badly because of me will eat at me. I want you to shine even if it means shining without me.

I know you’ll make it if you keep trying. It’s why I try not to get upset when you’re gone all weekend practicing or playing in tournaments and I’m at home alone with the monsters.

So if I don’t tell you enough, here’s the truth. I love the look on your face when you talk about your sport. I love the excitement you get when you win and I even love how much you beat yourself up when you lose because it shows that you’re trying your hardest – if you weren’t you would shrug it off like it’s nothing. I love the dozens of collectors on our bedroom walls that I already know will one day take over the entire room.

I love it all because I love you.

Always and forever,

Maddie