Every day, I fall a little more in love with you. I never expected to, but once I noticed the feeling creeping in, I was powerless to stop it. I don’t think you feel the same, nor are either of us in the place to begin a new relationship, even if you did. Maybe, one day. For now, I’ll cherish our every stupid little joke, our all-day text conversations and our close friendship. I just wish you knew how special you really are.
—Your BB

A couple of weeks ago you were walking by Garden Food Bar and smiled at a dorky trans-girl with big glasses and long hair. You were wearing a long jacket and had a beautiful smile. I just wanted to say thank you, you pulled me out of a bit of depression and gave me butterflies in my stomach.
—A Real Dork

To the lesbian couple holding hands on Quinpool Road last Friday: I was walking to school and passed you on the sidewalk. As a closeted teenager, seeing you made acceptance feel like a reality.
—Thank You

I was in line behind you to see that Miyazaki film at the Oxford while you were talking yourself out of buying an ice cream bar, and I bought you that damn bar. I just needed to see someone enjoy the little things in life. You asked to sit with me but I said no. I didn't tell you it was because my father was in the hospital and I didn't want a stranger to see me cry. He was fine, but when he went back last week I thought of you, and wondered whether you're enjoying this brief candle.
—It Was Such A Great Film

A steady stream,
Of music playing,
Almost on the daily.
I miss the serenity of that.
Chance encounters,
With interesting strangers,
Finding common ground,
At after-parties in Halifax.
Whether it be,
Day or night,
In the east.
I never once felt lonely.
There is depth to people,
Genuine kindness and empathy.
You just gotta be open to that.
Love and miss you Halifax.
—Awestruck With Tears Of Longing For A Return

I've always tipped well for every service in Halifax because I know what it's like out here in the hospitality industry—but my hanger got the best of me at a certain pizza place on Saturday, where I angrily put in a $0 tip because my pickup order had been delayed for an hour due to a glitch in the online order. You didn't deserve that. I'll return for more 'za soon and, this time, leave and doubly good tip. —Hangry, now regretful, gal

The Dead Kennedys mocked extreme liberals, fascists and bullies regularly and stated that one should "think for oneself". As a recovering leftist, I started to pay attention to the insidious madness of political extremes and realized that Trump was the antithesis of the regressive left.
I spent half my life as a socialist, and once I started to pay attention I realized I was wrong.
I am happy to think for myself again, and I have DK to thank for it.
Slander and ad hominem attacks are a symptom of those who have no argument—it's just bullying. It's easier to call someone a fascist than to truly understand what it means. It's lazy. People need dialogue to proceed. You don't have to like Trump, but people, please, think for yourself. There are always two sides.
And to Jello "Ashamed" Biafra, I've paid very close attention to the lyrics, and I'm confident DK would endorse neither Donny nor Hillary, just free thought. I respect your perspective and appreciate you being civil about it. It was inevitable someone would question the paradox—I'm glad it was you. And thank you, Halifax, for being so tolerant. Cheers.
—The man in the coat

Ladies, I am going to show you all the love with this warning of caution. You might find yourself getting to know the oddball at the club or are already friends. Know this: He doesn't deserve you or your time and effort. I'm sure he's told you about his big emotional revelations these past few years and for sure he's let you know he's got your back when it comes to dealing with all the schmucks around town along with praising #MeToo survivors but it's all a facade. It's a LIE! He is dishonest, disrespectful and does not genuinely care about your health and well being. He told me he changed how he viewed life and relationships and I believed him but it's all for attention—sexual or otherwise. I had many moments of self doubt and why me because of his unbecoming behaviour and my flaw in thinking I just didn't do enough to be treated well. I was crying while he was smirking last night. 

A good friend reminded me this morning that it only took me less than a month to realize and confront his deception verses staying in it previously over a year. I guess I am stronger. We are all just trying to find our way with hope alongside the right people. Choose wisely in this small town. Self love first. —Female Warrior

He didn't notice me noticing you from across the room. My heart leapt and I lost my appetite and concentration entirely. No one makes me tremble the way you do—this context was no different. I've been wondering how you're getting along and recalling why it is I chose not to be there for you as a friend. He and I have known each other for years and I feel comfortable with him because I won't break his heart and he cannot break mine. I knew heartbreak was a possibility with you though, and I was afraid.  I wish I were capable of an adult connection, but even friendship with you is beyond my black and white mentality and my level of maturity. I believe keeping my distance is the most ethical thing for me to do, but damn does my resolve crumble when you're near me. For what it's worth, I care about what happens to you. I care enough not to reach out again. I still think of you and truly hope you're doing well. —(Every-Other) Summer Lover

Hey Halifax, long time no see. I woke up here instead of a hospital bed in Ontario today. I was blackout drunk for 10 years and had no idea who or where I was and now that I'm back I can't believe how in-your-face the party scene is here. My family are in their autumn years and I just settled in for the winter. Am I fucking crazy? WTF am I doing back here? All I see is bars, drunks, free samples and piles of vomit in the street. I left Kitchener (previously known as Berlin and known for hosting the worlds largest Oktoberfest celebration and hate crimes outside of Europe) and I would have never imagined I would find such a hardcore drinking scene with a heaping scoop of racism. Who'd a thunk in just four days here I could write a book on how to stay sober while swimming through an endless sea of drunks. With an overall message of love and patience I thought I'd find peace and compassion next to my lady love. The ocean. And I did. "If the ocean can calm itself so can you, we are both just salt and water.” I'm not crazy, I'm fucking nuts. AND THIS CITY IS JUST AS BEAUTIFUL AS I RECALL IT. Wanna sober up? Want to stay sober? I'm the quiet guy who's not so alone down at the boardwalk, the ocean will always be there. Take good care of her and treat her with respect. —Landlubber