*This is the first update on my 35 letters project. So far I've written to five people. See the running list here. One of them is my Uncle T. This is part of his letter.
Dear Uncle T,
I'm saying goodbye to age 35 by writing letters to people who have made a distinct impression on my life. You easily made the cut.
I never realized this before, but your non-traditional style and physical presence was likely a significant reason I grew up having all types of friends and not judging people much based on their appearance. Tattoos and a grizzly facade just meant "Uncle T" to me, back in the day.
You recently told us about people clearing out of a store or taking things seriously when you walked in and had some words. As you tell a good story, I asked my husband if he thought you looked scary or intimidating to others. He said absolutely. I thought that was funny! I would never use those words to describe you. I just don't see you that way.
The biggest impression you probably made on me was the summer I turned 18. I was getting ready to start at the University. I was talking to you about the guys I knew from a fraternity. You got very serious and told me to make sure I was careful when I went out.
And then you said if anyone ever hurt me or did something I didn't like, I should let you know. That you would take care of it and make sure it never happened again. You told me you weren't afraid to go to jail; nobody was going to mess with your baby niece and get away with it.
I am sure I laughed my innocent, childish laugh and thanked you.
I'm not sure I would have taken you up on your offer, and thank god I never had reason to consider it. But the fact that you felt so protective of me, were willing to go to jail for me, really made me feel loved. Looking back, you shed some light on how personal sacrifice can be worth it when you care about someone.
So, thank you. Thank you for being my uncle. Thank you for teaching me that loyalty trumps beauty. Thank you for not letting family differences from before my time get in the way of still being family.
Some of your friends jokingly call you Uncle Si. I'm grateful to call you my Uncle T.
xo