Dear Donna

You probably don't remember me. I met you years ago. Admired your work. You were part of a cute little production that involved some of my favorite music. I stuck your CD in my collection and pulled you out every so often. I watched your movie from time to time, but I have to be honest...it wasn't my favorite. (Not because of the content, but because of the casting.) As much as people talked about you, you were just no big deal to me.

But then several months ago, you came roaring back into my life.

At first, I didn't want anything to do with you. I figured I'd never be good enough to be associated with you. And you know, I really didn't think you'd be good enough to be associated with me...on a totally different level. But then a friend told me a few secrets and insights about you. Piqued my curiosity for sure.

I started watching you. Studying you. I knew if we were going to see eye-to-eye, I was going to have to change a few things. Which I did. My heart softened toward you. I began to understand some of your choices. I began to see that your choices were also some I have made in my past, even though my life went in a much different direction. I began to see who you really were.

​I began to like you.

I worked really hard on myself. Changing my body so I could keep up with you. Finding just the right words, motions, emotions, and tones to capture your attention. Wishing, hoping, dreaming, and praying. And you know, all that really paid off. Because some amazing people saw that I just might be able to fill your shoes for a little while. And they gave me the chance to prove myself in that way.

I've been a part of you for three beautiful months now. And tomorrow, I have to say goodbye. I don't want to, but the time has come for us to move on from each other. I will always carry you with me in my heart. You've become part of me. You've taught me to value myself. You've given me confidence, compassion, wisdom, love, laughter, and freedom. I am forever grateful to and for you. You've changed my life.

Thank you, darling Donna. I will never, ever forget you.

#MammaMia! #SunrisePlayers

---