I figured that I should read this again because of the timing, and it made me think about some different stuff than the first time around.
It seems like I'm getting closer and closer to 16, and you're making me want to make sure that I don't lose what I love. I'm the worst organizer/deadline-meeter around (as you know) so it's probably about time for me to start now.
Also, a little thing... this part: "An almost prodigy who never quite reached the level of genius..." That made me think of the play "Inherit the Wind" for some reason... the part at the very end where he talks about the also-ran. Strange.
And just so you know, you're getting better and better. So don't stop.
Not that you ever would. You're too determined... because you're just cool like that.
And that's all.

I like this =D
Thanks for the advice on my hakiu. This hakiu (titled "Where?"), I have to admit, was not my favourite. If I could encourage you to read something else of mine, that would be great. I'm not very good with haikus, but, I thought I would experement some. Anyways, thanks.
~Rowan~

". . I want to test my limits strong enough to see if I. . ." seems like there's words mossing between 'limits' and 'strong'.

". . .not until you’re old and wondering why you’re life has gone." consider trading out 'why' for 'where'.

"That’s what my other gifts will be yet,. . ." Awkward phrasing.

"and maybe I’ll never be love (Sweet sixteen and never been kissed)," love = loved. Don't worry, getting a first kiss on your 16th birthday if for romantic people and the movies. It doesn't always happen. I'm 17 and never been kissed. Your time will come though, and when it does, it'll be special.

I can't help but critique a little so you can ignore the top part if you wish to. Of all the prose you've ever written, this is an excellent one, and seems well thought out, there are none of your usual confusing word tangles. I can understand what your saying in this about having goals and then changing things up, life moving too fast; I think it happens to everyone at that age. Things just seem to speed up and you look back wondering where all the time has gone. There wasn't really time enough to stay young and enjoy youth and care free times. The older you get, the more society binds you and directs you, and only a few exceptional people break free.

Tev, know this, you are my writing motivation. Without you and your encouraging words, I don't think I would have ever gotten back into the swing of writing and recovered my lost passion for it. If you never are able to touch another life and make a difference, know that you've made a small difference here, and it means the world to me.

Thank you.

Aww, Tev...I really liked this, especially since the way you wrote it came directly from you and was so true. You were so honest here and that inspired me to be more honest with my work.You have inspired me many times. When I read the first chapter of "House", especialy.Great... now I'm getting all sappy and such. But it's true.Thanks for how you've helped me. ~Strings

I must say, that was wonderful, you have a way with words.

Even reading this I thought of how I've wanted to write for a living, that idea hasn't been with me long, and I'm probably going to be one of those people that stop writing after sixteen.

In short, this was inspirational and it feels like it had a lot put into it.

Good Work.

The overall feeling of this piece is rather glum, but it works in a commentary on growing older like this one. I really like the image of the dripping wax at the start and the end, and I think repeating that image ties the piece together.

Aww...I almost cried, which is impressive because I never cry. o_0 but I know where you're coming from because I'm in exactly the same spot, only a few months behind you. It was like you were speaking to--and about--me the whole time and I can relate to everything you said.

Yes, I read and yes I listened, and I'll continue listening 'till the day I become too old to hear. And then, I'll just have to settle on reading until the day I become blind, whence I'll read the heart and soul. :)

I can't wait to read more, Tevvy. Whether you know it or not, you truly are an inspiration.

That was very inspirational and deeply moving. Anyway, I'm quite sure this had some positive effect on me, and whether you believe me or not, I hope my comment at least cheered you up. This piece was beautiful and it can relate to people easily. Nice job.

Well, I'm 17 (pushing 18) and it would appear that you're a more advanced writer than me (and you've acheived more too in getting something published). That was a polished piece of work spoken from the soul.

Anyway, I "listened" and I was impressed. Keep up the good work.

Also, your website is very informative and helpful. Good work.

I'm glad you broke your promise--glad you're posting this, because this is the sort of thing that I need to brighten my day.

You said your prose has weak spots, and it is true, normally, but not here. Knowing you made this have a greater impact on me, Tev, and this, even though it is autobiographical (or maybe because of it), was one of your strongest pieces yet. All of it's ringing true, and two days after my fourteen-and-a-half birthday, I'm feeling this sinking in--what will I be doing in a year and a half? Will I be at your level? Most likely not. I've got my ambitions and my wants, but most likely I won't have 3 years of high school and get a year of college done then too. You're really amazing Tev. But about the writing.

I don't want to critique it. I can't. It's all true, isn't it? I feel your emotion in here, and...

Gah, I'm getting weird and philosophical. I'm TIRED.

Anyways, please keep breaking promises and posting stuff up here. This piece is good, and I hope that you keep writing, I hope that your passion for it never burns out. I'm sure you can be a Russel or an Atwood, someday--just keep writing. You have made an impact on me, perhaps more than you know, perhaps more than I know. (After all, I never would have known about NaNo and never would have written that story, if it wasn't for you.)

And, by the way, happy birthday.