Personal Letter to Friends ] July 25, 2005 Monday, July 25, 2005 Dear Friends, Over the past four months, I have become a regular user of crystal methamphetamine. I acknowledge, without shame, a concern for my mental, physical and emotional health. As a result of this personal experience, I know that I am not alone in a having feeling of helplessness, especially in the gay community. The first step in fixing a problem is to acknowledge it. This Thursday, July 28, from 8 to 11 pm, I will take my concern to 17th Street, the heart of the gay community in Washington DC. I will produce a banner which says "I USE CRYSTAL METH" in bold letters, and offer places for individuals to circle "yes / no" with a black marker. A message will read: Let's acknowledge, without shame, the existence. Let's Talk." I will also collect e-mail addresses for those who want to talk about Crystal Meth use. To carry this message beyond my reach, I will pass out stickers which say "Let's Talk about Crystal Meth". If you would like to support me in this effort to redirect the course of my life, please respond with any thoughts. If you are able to join me on 17th Street this Thursday to pass out stickers, please let me know, or just show up. Please check back over the next few months to keep up to date on this personal journey. Chad chad@chadupham.com