So I feel compelled to explain my sudden absence from all things. It's pretty simple really. The first reason I've suddenly gone missing is because my time now is mostly being consumed by the online game City of Heroes, which I love to death. This is partially destroyed by the second reason, our shitty internet service provider and the on again off again connection. That was eclipsed by the Olympics, which for some reason I feel absolutely compelled to watch. US plays China in men's basketball in a bit so I'll try to keep this short...

The last reason, and most important one, is because I learned that my grandfather's health is getting worse. He was diagnosed with cancer about a year ago, but the doctors figure he'll simply pass away before it gets too bad. A few days ago my mom told me he was moved into a nursing home because he needs more and more care on a constant basis. We're going out to see him and the rest of the family in about a week or so, and it's just kinda... strange. My grandfather was always this loving strong figure for me. Every memory I have of him is with him joking or smiling. To know that he's getting worse and worse, that he'll be in bad shape when we do visit, it's hard. My dad is ready for the inevitable, he's lost family members before, but I don't think my mom, my brother or I are ready for this just yet. He may only have a few more years, less depending on how his surgeries and chemotherapy go.

I try not to think about it, so between COH and the Olympics I'm going to try to get back to writing a bit more. I've been rather reserved about putting my writing up on here, simply because I don't think it's that good and doubt I would get too many comments on anything, but depending on responses we'll see.In any case, I'll try to be on a bit more as the summer draws to a close, but when school starts my time will be severely strained.

As always my wishes for any who take the time to read this are:
Be safe, Be happy.

"Aging is not 'lost youth' but a new stage of opportunity and strength."

I can only hope this holds true. Today I turn 20, and in another year a whole new world of choices, possibilities, and responsibilities will open up to me. For now though, life goes on. From yesterday to today not much has changed. The hopes and dreams have but evolved, and the worries and fears remain in the dark corners of my mind.

On this day I celebrate not my existence, but the things that another year can offer me. In the last 19 I have found everything from friendship to love, from pain to sorrow, and each new experience brings with it wisdom. I like to say 'I fool myself a wise man' in that I believe myself wise when my actions are foolish. Perhaps this new year of my life will find me a wise man at last. Who's to say.

In any case; I want to thank all those who share themselves with me. I only hope year 20 gives me many more good stories to tell.