The Kat House

Got a letter from my friend Jeremy today. Very few of you have heard of him, so I’ll tell his story now. I met Jeremy in 1992, and we became instant friends. He is one of the smartest and most caring guys I’ve ever known. Well, after I got married in ‘94, Jeremy enlisted in the Army. He was really making a name for himself in military journalism. Unfortunately, tragedy struck in October ‘98. At that time, Jeremy was stationed in Fort Jackson, SC. He was married but had been separated from his wife for a year. She was living back here in Knoxville. On a military leave, Jeremy returned to Knoxville to bring some of his wife’s belongings. In a bizarre turn of events, shots were fired by both husband and wife. The wife ended up dead, and Jeremy ended up going to prison. I don’t condone his behavior, but he is my friend, and as such, I refuse to turn my back on him. For the last 6 years, I have been the best friend that I could possibly be to him. We send letters back and forth, and occasionally, we talk on the phone. He is the most loyal friend I have ever had. He has been there for me through thick and thin. I pride myself on being a good person and on finding the good in others. And despite the fact that many people view Jeremy as some kind of monster, he will always be a beautiful person to me. Though he is currently serving a life sentence without possibility of parole, I am hopeful that one day he will be returned to society and that society will accept him. The letter that I received today was like most others - several pages detailing the recent events of his life - but the end of the letter really touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes. “I’ve loved you for so long. I’m glad you are who you are. You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever known.” And Jeremy is the most loyal friend I have ever known.