It's Over, John

Dear John,

I was kind of surprised you called after all we went through. As much as I hated to admit it, I missed you. When we first hooked up, it felt so good, like we could be together for a long, long time. As I did do the advertising campaign that put you on the map, I wanted nothing more than to leverage that success and be a part of building your business. I am good at that and flush with ideas. It’s what I do. I’m surprised because when we were still together, I offered to share that thinking with you, but you didn’t want to pay me for it. No nice dinner out. Not even flowers. You decided you didn’t need me. And you left me for someone cheaper – without even telling me. You cheated John, and that hurt me deeply.

You see, like anyone else, I just wanted to be in a healthy relationship. But unfortunately, you did not appreciate me and the value of my many years of experience. No one wants to feel unappreciated and kicked aside for someone else. You hurt me and it still hurts. Granted, I may still be somewhat attracted to you but I’ve tried to suck it up, I moved on. And then, after all that time, you ask me to take you back? You thought I’m that easy?

Okay, to be honest, the crazy part is I did still have feelings for you. Rationally I couldn’t see how this would be a good idea. Had you changed John? Would you hurt me again? Our friends said I was nuts. But I was weak and I guess your begging got to me. Against my better judgement, one more time, I let you in. I reviewed the work you sent over. Work done by the other guy. And yes, I agreed, the work was not acceptable. You deserved better, John. The work lacked clarity, appropriate brand extension, and a distinct point of differentiation. But it was you who made this choice, and I thought that maybe you should just learn to live with it.

God knows why I opened my heart and put together another proposal. I discounted the rate and offered to add scope at no additional cost. You gave me that wonderful familiar feeling that I was what you wanted. My heart was momentarily buoyed. Yeah, well, I should have known better. In the end, it was still too much for you and once again, you rejected me. That was your last chance, John. Your chance to show me you had changed, that you were who I hoped you were. I don’t know what I was thinking, maybe the memory of what we could have been. Of our dream together.

Now I just feel cheap, dirty, and abused. You will never see my value, you will never really want me. I know you will just cheat again. And I am only human, now left questioning when I will love again. In the end John, it’s not you, it’s me. I know now I can do better. Please do not call me again; it can never work. It’s over. We will never get back together. Ever.

Unless of course, your budget reaches 7 figures.

Be well.