Looking at where we are today, our relationship doesn't seem so "unlikely," but it really was.
When we were kids, we didn't like each other. We both got on the other's nerves endlessly. The quirks that I've come to know and love weren't so endearing when I was in fifth grade. But to be fair, we have both changed so much since then (I'd hope so), and I'm glad we can look back, laugh at ourselves, and admit we all are kind of terrible as children.
I still have memories of the day in middle school when we got assigned seats next to each other. I was nervous because of our past, and I was thinking that it would probably not end well. I'm one who sucks at changing my opinions on people, but after that first 45 minute class period, I knew that I liked you. We made so many jokes, and I remember laughing a lot. Who knew American History could be so funny?
I don't really know how it happened, but suddenly were the best of friends. And I thank God often for bringing you into my
We went through a lot of cringe-worthy phases together. The always reliable "punk rock" phase. The extremely-annoying-fangirl phase. And remember those weeks where we really thought we had a chance at being famous YouTubers? Everything about middle school and early high school is so gross and embarrassing, but I am so glad that we went through that together (except I could have done without those stupid fights we had back then).
Without you, I don't know that I would have come out of high school in one piece. You were there for a lot of late night conversations during which I was an emotional mess. You read over lots of my essays. You made sure I didn't forget important things - since I have a tendency to forget everything. And you made sure I was always welcome at your house. You did so much more, but most of all, you were my friend through every moment.
We began and ended high school together, and that makes going our separate ways for college even more bittersweet. Bitter because I will miss you, and doing "school things" without you will be weird at first. Sweet, because I saw the amazing growth you underwent throughout high school, and I am so excited to see you continue to do that at a university that really suits you and has all the opportunities you need to bloom.
So, my unlikely friend, thank you for everything. I love you so much. I'm eternally grateful that we gave each other another chance.
Feminism Redefined
