8:57 A.M.

       8:57 A.M. Somewhere in the heart of it all, I, Damian DeadLove was born on 12 March 1975. I recall screaming and growling about how cold the delivery room was that day. Much to my mothers shock of course that an infant was capable of such.

      I jest. I couldn’t death growl yet, that was later. God, didn’t bless me with a great singing voice. As time would reveal.

      He gave me lungs though, and I could scream with anyone. Don’t believe me? Feel free to ask my parents?

      Fifty years. Half a century in this old worn out body. Miles equals wisdom, words I believe in, people. I don’t know how many years are left, and it’s a waste of time pondering on the topic.

      Here’s what I do know, I’m not done yet. There is more to do, I feel it in my bones. I’ll spill ink until I die, or until I’m unable. Everyone who reads my work, knows my story.

      Without DU, there is no Backstage, there is no SpotLight, there are no new writes. This place helped me reclaim my creative existence.

      Because of that I will remain wandering these halls until the doors close. Out of respect, that’s my stance. For those who choose to go, I get it, and I wish you the best of luck on all future endeavors. We all must do what our guts tell us to do.

      For those who are choosing to stay just like me, lets have fun. Let’s encourage each other, let’s try a new style, work out an idea, pitch a concept, be a sounding board, but lets have fun doing it.

      Let’s not mourn the loss of DU closing, let us honor it’s existence for giving us a community all these years. For the people it brought together, the writes it spawned, the collaborations, and the competitions that have taken place.

      For the current members, past members, and those no longer with us. These halls have welcomed many, and some even decide to make it home. Friendships were born, lives were changed, this place did good things.

      You’ll notice I’m focusing on the positives, that’s by design. We’re all human, humans have flaws. DU has flaws, that’s what gives it personality, that’s what makes it different.  

      I’ve never had contact with the, Webmistress, that I know of anyways. I’ve not been in trouble, that could have a lot to do with it.

      But, I’ve also heard in underground lore, the she’s a fellow writer. Even writes under an alias, and walks amongst us. I get the reason why she does it. Makes sense to me.

      I got a feeling it’s possible she might read this, maybe, I may not be on her radar. lol. Anyhow, I wanna thank you for starting DU. For helping me get my feet back under me.

      I’m sure it has to hurt closing the door on something you created. Just know this dream of yours, it allowed others to dream as well. And that’s something to always be proud of, so always hold you head high. And again thank you.

      Anyways, I’m off to enjoy my birthday people. Thanks for reading, folks. Peace, Love, and Lennon.