Letter to 16 year old Wormwood

Wormwood,

First off let me just say that life kind of took a shit on you with the whole epilepsy thing. I'd tell you to get over it and get on with your life, but we both know that point is moot. Be glad though, that you live in the age of advanced medicine. Consider that in the Dark ages you would be burned at the stake as a demon possessed evil-doer. Knowing what I know now, let me just tell you they may not have been far wrong. That's something else you will need to come to terms with.

As your life progresses you may note that what others consider wrong, you may see as just, what normal people cringe at is the kind of thing that will bring a smile to your face or a chuckle from your lips. That's not going to go away. In fact it will progress to a point where you feel you will need to let the "altar boy/boy scout" part of you die. Believe me when I say you will be better off.

You may also believe in Anarchism now, but understand that it's a stupid idea. Anarchism is just a convenient pet cause for you to use to put some distance between yourself and what is socially acceptable as well as your family. Believe it or not, the "cause" that will make you most comfortable is a religion; the last conceivable one you would expect, so prepare to shop around.

Know also that the people you're planning to kill right now will be the ones you come to accept and love despite all reason, and though you may still want to destroy them sometimes you will be glad you don't during birthdays and x-mas. Also know that a person can be a "friend" and nemesis simultaneously. Shane is one of those people.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you will NEVER have your sister's relentless motivation. However your level of bullheadedness and spite will keep you going even during the worst times. But despite the current lack of completed goals, the people you will call your friends are truer folk that will accept you for all your flaws in a way your own blood would never even consider.

Sitting here now, thinking back on who you were, I think I know how my Wormwood must feel. I cannot tell you the things you must do, only tell you what will end up transpiring due to the decisions you will eventually make. I guarantee you though that life will be much easier if you keep a very open mind and take care not to step on your shadow.

Good luck dumb-shit,
27 year old Wormwood (HS!)