Only You

Dear Baseball Cards,

I know I don't tell you this often enough, but, well... it's not something I can easily put into words. It's something about the way you look, and you're always there for me when I need you. It's just that, well, we've been through a lot together, you know? And I can't tell you how much that means to me.

I think about you all the time... Just now I was thinking of a way to come and see you. You know, make it look like I was just in the area... What can I say? I like being with you, I like your smell, the way you feel when I hold you. It hurts me every time others beat up on you--the way they tear at you, throw you against the wall, tape you, punch holes in you, or give you unnecessary tattoos.

I know you've been with others, but I see past all that when I look at you. Past the dings, the creases--your age doesn't scare me off (if anything, it only excites me more).

And it's not like I don't have my flaws--I do. Plenty. I admire that you don't ask me to change. But I will change for you if you ask.

I want us to grow old together, get a house somewhere and just fill it up. I want you in every room. Up against the walls and on the desk, in the bedroom and out in the garage. When I get home from work, when I wake up in the morning.

What can I say? I love you. I think I knew it the moment I first laid eyes on you, over 20 years ago. Why couldn't I say it before? I've thought about telling you many times, but the time never seemed right. I dunno, I guess I was nervous about how you'd react.

I couldn't keep it inside any longer. I understand if you never want to see me again. This is a lot to lay on someone seemingly out of the blue. Just know that there's no one else out there for me. I've done a lot of thinking about this and there's no one I'd rather be with. Not today, not tomorrow, not ever. There's only you.

Yours,

Ben