Dear Aira,
The first time I met you was in an English class. I was a late enrollee at the time, and I was assigned to your group (Group 4). I was a bit of a closed book back then, my mind focused on my shame for arriving late and not talking to anyone at all.
The thought of being isolated usually comforted me, and choosing the perfect seat for that used to excite me. But then, I talked to you because: 1) I was in your group, 2) you seemed approachable, and 3) I didn’t know anyone else in the room. You were the first person I talked to since stepping foot in UC (except for the registrar’s office and the advising instructor, of course).
First impression: WOW. A skinny, long-haired version of Snow White from an old fairy tale book.
You went in and out of my sight in class, but I never really noticed your absence. I guess I just didn’t have that tingling feeling of wanting to befriend anyone at the time.
And then came Drama Class. I heard you weren’t the type to volunteer for a role, but you volunteered to be Nora Helmer. Things happened, as we all know, and I became who I became back then—and that’s when I truly got to know you.
I admire your confidence and your skills. There were things I didn’t expect from you, like that time you wanted something sexy for your character. I didn’t entirely agree with it, but I still said okay because, why not? For me, if you think you can pull it off, then go for it. I also learned that you are friendly in your own way. Remember that time you took my side? I guess maybe you didn’t really, but let me believe that was the case.
The theater plays that followed made me appreciate you even more. You did your parts so well, not just in acting, but also when you were in charge of the music and sound effects. I love the way you work and how serious you are with the tasks at hand. Do you remember that time we both cried after all the shouting? Thank you for that moment. It made me realize that things can’t always be all “happiness and laughter” just because we want them to be, and that things won’t always go as planned—but there will always be that one person there to keep you in check.
Our drinking sessions felt like one of my obligations—and I wouldn’t dare mention the details—but I had fun. Our last days together were quite average as we kept our distance. I don’t really know why, but I guess we were all just busy with preparations and other things.
If given the chance, I would love to work with you again. I only wish we could arrange something big, like a theater play, just to gather everyone from the crew and do it for fun.
XoXo,
The Class Production Director
