Dear Sally,
I’m sure you know that I successfully escaped Mango Street, like I said I always would, and am now a renowned author and owner of a beautiful suburban home. I am currently single, but satisfied with being an independent woman. I’m sure you are wondering why I am suddenly writing to you after all these years of silence. I just wanted to let you know that I forgive you. Although at first, I was furious and disappointed with you because you weren’t there for me when I needed you the most. You lied to me about men, it wasn’t at all like you described it. I blamed you and the women of the neighborhood for lying to me and for not coming to my rescue rather than blaming the man who actually assaulted me. Now, I’ve realized it was not my fault or your fault; it was the man’s fault. I wondered for so long why you didn’t tell me the truth, why you weren’t there for me like I was for you in the Monkey Garden. I know now that it happened because of a greater being’s plan for me. He made that happen to me so I could learn from it, and use this experience and the consequences of it in order to benefit my writing. I’ve been able to use this experience in order to help others that have gone through the same things I have so they can hopefully get out of their “Mango Street” just like I did. Sally, I want to encourage you to escape from this life you’re living. The man you’re with does not treat you like a real man should, he doesn’t love you the way you should be loved. I realize that you have lived your whole life with a controlling man in the picture, and I’m not guaranteeing it will be easy, but the end results are so worth it. I have a spare bedroom in my home if you would like it. All you have to do is say the word and I’ll be there for you. And don’t worry, there are currently no bums living in my attic. I love you Sally, and I will always support you in whatever you choose to do; come live with me until you can get your feet back under you, or stay on Mango Street for the rest of your life.
Best wishes,
Esperanza