25. LETTERS
LETTERS
Dear Olivia,
If your mother calls you ugly, she’s a liar.
I am so sorry we haven’t met. I am so sorry this is the way we find out about each other.
If your mother picks at your body, please understand she’s a liar.
Just know, we love you very much. If she ever hits you, know that it’s okay to fight back.
You have an entire family tree in Texas who would love to meet you.
Tell us about yourself! What are you into? What kinds of music are you into? Do you have any favorite artists? Books? Hobbies?
I would love to send you more letters and gifts, if that’s okay with you. If you decide to write back, I will tell you more about myself, but I want to know about YOU. What do you want to be when you grow up? How are you doing? How are you surviving your mother?
I look forward to hearing from you!
Sending you so much love and warmth,
- Lucia
***
Hi Olivia,
I’m Isabel. I am your sister! It’s weird to know, right? All of a sudden, we are a part of each other’s lives. This is good. This is what should happen. I hope you are okay with this happening. Of course, let us know otherwise.
Tell me everything about you. How are you doing in school? Does mom treat you okay? Do you like birdwatching? Do you have severe anxiety like me? There are some really neat birds in New Mexico. What kinds of books do you like to read?
A little about me:
I am studying to become a wildlife biologist. Specifically, I want to work with bison populations.
I love going to concerts. I enjoy my life because I know mom would hate me for it.
I love hiking and getting to know the spirits of the land.
I have a cat and her name is Athena. She’s a black cat who has brought me so much good luck. She’s basically my child.
Do you have any pets?
What are your dreams?
Do you dream of escaping our mom?
Please tell me everything about you. I so look forward to learning about you.
Can I call you baby sister?
Love you more than you can ever know,
Isabel