I used to be quasi pen pals/relay chat pals with this guy in college. I remember he mailed me a tape(yep, a cassette) of Phish. Great band, indeed!

It stinks that job and financial responsibility call, at the same time instead of bemoaning, I understand it would better to look at the bright side--your new job! And plan for the next year.

It's not like you didn't give him the out, in that he could just go without you.