Modern Love: Visiting my first love for the last time

He couldn't speak or move, but the energy between us was still palpable.

View in browser|nytimes.com September 21, 2024 "How many women can say that their first time was amazing?" the actor Maria Bello writes. She visited her first love decades after they dated — to say goodbye: Her beloved Johnnie was dying of A.L.S. Brian Rea Read the Modern Love essay. → Sign up for the Modern Love newsletter. Stories about relationships, feelings, betrayals and revelations. Get it in your inbox Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this message because you signed up for updates from The New York Times. To stop receiving From The Times, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018