You ever think about your life as very little kid? I’m not talking 7, 8, or even 9. I’m talking about the early years, right out of infancy. What’s your first memory? 

For me, it was paling around with Theodore Forlenza. I cannot even remember a time where we weren’t a part of each other’s lives. Even though we’re three months apart, it might as well have been like I was there for his birth, ready to give him a high five when he came out, or he was there for mine.

So, ok, obviously, we were inseparable since birth, but it’s not just about being there for each other. It’s about the long game. The first six years of our lives were on easy mode. We lived walking distance from each other’s houses and were able to have those classic “play dates” whenever we wanted. Then the unthinkable happened: I moved to New Jersey. There wasn’t a state line, though, that would break this bond. 

We’ve kept in contact with each other without conflict through the years. Between sleepovers in Jersey and NY, making movies, and of course the Bong of Destiny, we’ve bonded like brothers. There are few people on this planet who make me laugh as much as Ted does. He’s got a sense of humor that will brighten anyone’s day. Through our over 30 years of friendship I honestly can’t think of a single time we’ve gotten in a fight. There’s just love for each other. 

Ted tragically lost his little brother, Nick, not too long ago. I remember when Nick was born, and when we would do double sleepovers back-to-back, Nick would always come with his mom and hangout with us. I considered him a little brother as well. Nick was my hero growing up, always defending me from any douchebags that I would come across.  A great person to share a beer with, and a fantastic person to be around. So when Nick passed, Ted was offered an option, through tragedy comes a path. When a traumatic event you have two decisions: growth or regression. He’s chosen growth all the way.

Ted, I could not be more proud of how you’ve handled your brother’s passing. I know in my being Nick is looking down smiling at you. You’ve made more progress in your behavior in these few months than I’ve seen people make over the course of years. Pat yourself on the back, my guy. You’re doing fucking fantastic.

I know I could never replace Nick and I would never try to. But know this, Ted, through thick and thin, ‘till the end of time. Our bond will never be broken. We are also brothers to the end, and I will always love you.