In all my 22 years of life I have never kissed a girl.  In fact, I have never even been on a real "date."  I've had my fantasies, and no
doubt, Beverly has been a part of many of them.  But Beverly will always be special to me, because we have spent so much time together.  Although we rarely ever physically touch each other, except for a quick hug every now and then, we are still very close.

Recently, one of Beverly's friends from several states up passed
away.  Beverly has been broken up over it, revealing a very sensitive
side to her that I never knew was there before.

One night, about four days after the death, we were walking downtown together with a couple others, on our way to a concert.  I could tell Beverly was depressed that night, but I was reluctant to do anything physical because I am always afraid of making her feel uncomfortable.

Finally after walking a couple blocks, Beverly stopped behind me and said, "Darius (my nickname), I can't take this anymore!"  And she broke down into tears.  At that point, I put all my fear behind me and walked up to her and took her into my arms.  Immediately she grabbed onto me, and held me like I was the last thing she had left in this world.  And I held her like I've never held anyone before in my life.

The hug lasted about 15 or 20 seconds.  Finally she let go and walked
away.  I followed her and after several seconds, I put my arm around
her, and much to my surprise, she put her arm around me too.  We walked arm in arm the rest of the way.  That is the first time in my entire life that I've ever gotten to walk arm in arm with a girl.

I have so much love to give.  And every day I long so deeply to show
this love to the world.  However, all painters must have a canvas on which to paint.  Even if it was only for a few seconds, Beverly was my canvas on which I was able to paint my love and show it to the world.  Noone will ever know how happy that has made me.