Don’t cry… I am always here for you, even if you don't realize it.

How, you ask?

I understand it is hard to believe.

After all, I’m just a bear; a stuffed bear.

I can’t give you advice.

I can’t return your hugs.

I can’t wipe away your tears.

But…

I can listen.

I am always here to listen.

I have a heart.

A heart that aches to see you smile.

No matter how many years go by,

No matter how many hugs take my fur away,

No matter how many people come and go,

I will always be waiting for your return.

I will always welcome you home.

You may tell me your secrets,

I won’t tell a soul,

Your sorrows,

I will listen and take them away.

Your joys.

I will rejoice with you.

I know you are growing up.

I know that you love him.

You don’t need me anymore.

You go to him instead of me.

I’m happy that you have someone to count on.

I’m glad that he can carry your burdens.

He can give you advice.

He can return your hugs.

He can wipe away your tears.

But…

Please promise me one thing…

Don’t forget about me.

Remember me.

Remember that I love you.

Don’t leave me on some dusty shelf.

Don’t leave me here alone.

Take me back into the light…

Please, don’t go.

…

The light?

Are you back for me?

I have grown dusty.

Old. Faded.

Remember how you loved me?

Remember how I love you?

Thank you for remembering.

I forgive you.

I will always love you.

Hold me close.

I missed you.

I missed your warmth.

You are older now…

Have you grown old with him?

You have a little one.

I will be there for him

I will listen to his secrets and not tell a soul.

I will listen to his sorrows and take them away.

I will listen to his joys and rejoice with him.

I will love him.

I will love him, just as I love you.

Don’t worry.

I will always welcome him home.

I promise.

Thank you for loving me.

I miss you, Tae.