Jannette,

While I understand the message you convey, and feel the pain of your words, in your wielding of them has your plea perished before it lived.

None of us are blameless in perpetuating the cycle of hurt; not me, nor you, nor others. For you to believe that you can end this cycle by casting hurt upon others is a strange thought, but I have not been a city person for long. Perhaps this is yet another strangeness of city people that I will not understand for a while.

Regardless, I believe the cycle can end, but if so, it will not be by despair, but with hope. Instead of condemning others, perhaps try to be what you wish for us to be. Be an example to look up to. Seek the support of others. Show humility instead of exaltation. From such deeds are hopes made, and just as your despair crumbled your message before it began, hope will give it the strength to continue.

I thank you for your effort to make this year enjoyable for all. Ironbeard would be proud. Stay strong.


[ At the bottom, someone has doodled a black seed, from which a little sapling blooms. Flames engulf the entirety of the plant, yet it remains untarnished. ]

Penned by my hand on the 16th of Artificium, in the year 238 AM.