“Dear friend, It has been awhile since we last had a meaningful conversation, but until the day…”

Dear friend, It has been awhile since we last had a meaningful conversation, but until the day you say "stop" I will continue being your friend. I'm sorry growing up I couldn't do anything or say much when you asked me about what I felt about your situation. I knew growing up your skin color was basically a target on your back at our neighborhood. Every time you told me about the stares and remarks I would find ways to change the topic of conversation. I didn't know it was a big deal until it was too late. It's not like I was scared of making your situation any worse. I was ignorant about the whole thing. I remember when I was there during the day after school with you and saw what the people told you about your dress and how you weren't allowed to have fun. I decided to ignore it. Even when we took the trip to the zoo together and people seeing us together as if it was wrong, I still didn’t say anything to you. I knew my actions led to our discomfort, but I hope you understand that I didn’t know any better. If I can go back and change things I would; I would rather tell you how great a person you are and not let others determine or change you. Sorry, friend. I hope you grow strong from your experiences... - An old friend