My dear friends,

Thank you so much for being by my side for as long as you have; it's been a long ride together and we've had many ups and downs but we're still here — through thick and thin. Our shared experiences have given us a bond that'll be unbreakable for the rest of our lives no matter how far apart we are.

But, you already know that I love you so I want to thank you for something I don't mention often enough.

Thank you for being positive — positive about life, positive about women, positive role models, positive about empowering each other at all times and so much more. When I'm feeling down, through breakups and bad memories, you offer advice and your own life experiences. You let me know that I can do anything I set my mind to, no matter the setbacks.

We build each other up. I never feel like I have to compete with you to see who can have the best clothes, the cutest boyfriend, make the most money or anything; your joys in life are my joys and my joys are yours no matter what. Every win is a celebration and you celebrate like it's your own.

I don't care if my nails aren't done, my hair is greasy and I have no makeup on. When we're together, I feel beautiful, powerful, funny and like I can take on the world because of our friendship and the kind words we share.

Our group messages are entertaining and fun, filled with happy thoughts and plans for the future. We want to see each other and we want to talk to each other all the time.

All too often we see women tearing each other down and making someone else feel as if they were two inches tall. Everyone is out to get what's best for them and no one cares who they hurt to get there. But, you, my friends, do not.

So, thank you for being you.