Dear Roommate/Sister/Best Friend,

Let me just begin by saying two simple words that are so easy to forget to mention -- Thank you. You don't know how much you have helped me through my college experience mentally, emotionally and spiritually. This letter will be a list of "thank yous" to show you that, because of the influence you have had on my life, I am stronger. I am happier. I am a better person because of you.

1. Thank you for supporting me with my studies.

Good friends are hard to find, and finding friends who will stick by your side even when you're half-crazed from studying is almost impossible. You are one of those, one of the special ones. I'm having flashbacks to the times that I had to stay up writing a research paper and knowing that I could count on you to be there beside me. I love how we could sit in silence as we did homework but still be present and supportive of each other. Nights full of last-minute cramming were made better because they also included jam sessions and movies with you. You were so helpful to me with my school work, and I could tell that you cared about what I want to do with my life and my grades.

2. Thank you for being able to have fun with me.

College is a serious place full of hours upon hours of study time and the first major decisions that come with adulthood. As important as these times are, times of relaxation are desperately needed, and you helped me remember to take time off to have fun. Thank you for the nights of Netflix marathons ("The Office," "Parks and Recreation," and "New Girl" are life), nights filled with long talks about life and nights where we didn't go to sleep until 3 a.m. simply because we were laughing so hard about anything and everything.

3. Thank you for appreciating my interests and tastes.

I'm an avid Harry Potter, Disney, Broadway and Shakespeare fanatic, just to name a few of my favorite topics. Somehow, you were able to see the value in every side of me, even all of my weird quirks. You know how many times I've listened to the "Hamilton" soundtrack, and somehow you're still my friend. If I come in singing "Wicked," you don't judge -- you sing along! You patiently listened as I rambled on about movies and books, all without a complaint. I can't thank you enough for that.

4. Thank you for encouraging me spiritually.

This is the most important aspect of my life, and, thankfully, you realize this, too. You're not afraid to talk to me about what you think about the Bible and every part of your Christian walk. For some reason, I used to be afraid to express my beliefs, especially when they were controversial. But the qualities that you show in your Christian life have helped me to feel comfortable and open about my Christianity, and I'm not afraid anymore.

5. Thank you for always being there for me.

Whether I'm happy, sad, excited, or angry, you always try your best to identify with what I'm going through. It's crazy to think that I haven't known you my whole life because you've become like a sister to me. I promise to always be there for you, through thick and thin. I also promise to try my best to be like you: a good roommate and a better friend. I couldn't be more thankful for you.

Love,

Your Grateful Roommate