The Greatest Gift
We all know that Christmas is a time of giving.
Yet one of the greatest gifts is one that cannot be bought.
It’s a gift that keeps on giving, throughout the year,
throughout our lives.
That gift is friendship.

Dear T and Em,

A friend stands beside you, not just when times are happy, but especially when times are difficult.

Thank you for sticking by my side when times were tough. Even when we were very young, you both managed to be so brave and help me through rough times. On the worst days, you whisked me away from sadness and put a smile on my face.

A friend is someone who is always loyal, that stable rock in your life.

Thank you for being my stability. When I transferred to a new school, you were still by my side in spirit. You were the ones I could not see for months, but you remained loyal, as we stayed as close as we were before. You understood and knew our friendship would never change.

A friend is someone who believes in you, even when others might doubt.

Thank you for your support. Whether I wanted to go outside and build a large fort with tiny sticks, or venture to film a movie, you believed in me. You were there, right by my side, telling me I could do it the whole time.

A friend is someone who gives you the freedom to be yourself.

Thank you for always bringing out the kid in me. You’ve stomped through rivers and bushes to explore with me. We’re 15 now, but when I see you, we can still exchange hugs, grab backpacks and run into the forest. No questions asked, just run in the warm or cold breeze of the day.

A friend is someone who lights your spirit.

Your love and passion for the world lights up the room, and it always brightens my spirit. I will never forget what we three share. Our bond is deep and I hope it will never be lost.

Thank you for all that you are and all that you do.

Here’s to you and here's to us,

Ash