Dear best friend in the military,
When you told me you were joining the military, I was speechless. For however long until you left for your bootcamp, I was in denial that you were gone. Granted, I wasn't living in the town we grew up in anymore, but still. After being used to talking to you like everyday and knowing that I wouldn't get to do that when you left... really sucked. But never was I upset with your choice...in fact, I felt the complete opposite of that. Knowing that my best friend, has decided to make one of the bravest decisions anyone could make to protect and serve our country... just reminded me of how incredible you are.
When you invited me to that going away shindig, I honestly had to try my hardest to fight back some tears. It was making things so much more real. We've known each other for about 10 years and got the closest 6 years ago. You were the greatest softball player I had ever met... just about scared me having to play against you. We got so close our senior year, and even after all of that time and me moving to six different cities, we've remained best friends.
Once we got close, we never went without seeing each other for over a month. But now we have gone months without seeing each other. When did we last see each other? March?? That's crazy and makes me so sad. I hate not being able to see you like we used to. But I know that our friendship conquers any distance. When I see you living this new life in your new home, I wish so badly I could be there to experience it with you! You're making new friends, and yeah... I get a little jealous, but not because I think I'll be replaced, but because they get to have your crazy, outgoing self around them like I used to.
But all in all, I cannot express how proud of you I am. Anytime the military is brought up with a friend or anyone near me... I just can't help myself to brag about how I have a best friend in the Navy. The fact that you left everything you've ever known and a place you grew up in for the military is just amazing. Not too mention you look just absolutely gorgeous in your uniform!
But no matter what we are doing in our lives or where we are, we have been constantly supporting each other through everything. After losing my uncle this year, you were there for me to talk to whenever I needed to. Any time I felt heartbroken you were there and when good people come into my life, you support me. I told you about the jobs I want to apply for and how they ask for "my story" and your exact words to me were: "You have a great story. You're an amazing person and I know you've been through so much shit and I'm so proud of you." You keep me strong. I am beyond grateful that I have you in my life.
You are my best friend, but most importantly, you are family. You have been someone who always reminded me to love myself and that I deserve the very best. Because of you, I know how to stand up for myself and I do my best to keep any negativity out of my life. I always miss you and I am so very proud of you. I can't wait to see you.
Love you always, girl!
