Dear my lifelong friend, Nina,

Ever since we first met, you have embraced the roles of musician, singer, star, activist, friend, wife, and mother, as well as many others. I have seen and marveled at you standing at the junction of these tributaries, leaning into the current of life. Your assertive and unapologetic persona, genuine and deeply resonant with your conceptions of justice, was a boon in the world of civil rights. You used your position and abilities aggressively to address problems that caused you justifiable rage. Yet, I have also seen how you were overwhelmed, in part consumed by anger, sadness, and frustration… It was too unnameable, too silent, for too long. I still can’t bear to think about the harsh reality of your relationship with Andy. But I am thankful at least that I have circled around to find you–perhaps you consider yourself a star, an activist, a friend, or any number of things in between–again.

Warmly,

Al