Reason 76

Love. I have worn my heart on my sleeve for as long as I can remember, despite the fact that the people I ache for usually tear that heart off and stomp all over it. I've grown a wee more discreet about my feelings over the years, but honesty seems to be at the core of who I am, which means I will always let someone know how I feel. This is especially true for my friends, who are often on the receiving end of "I love you." Ironically, I didn't hear those three little words much from my parents growing up, although I knew that they both thought I was the bee's knees, and even now, as an adult, I have a hard time telling my parents that I love them. I guess it's lucky for you then, Jason, that you are not my parent because once we're friends I won't hesitate to tell you how much I adore you. The music of James Taylor has inspired me for years and I have always believed in his wisdom that "everything will work out fine" if you just "shower the people you love with love." It seems simple, but that hopped up heroine addict was really onto something. So, dear readers, this Valentine's Day try to ignore the commercialism of the holiday, the overpriced chocolates and the nauseatingly happy couples strolling down the street, and simply let the people in your life know that you love them. And to you, Jason, I say thanks for bringing joy into my life. I really do love you, man.