At one time or another, we all find ourselves searching for "the one," for true love. It's a seemingly timeless ideal; one that perpetuates itself from generation to generation. It's easy to see why. Falling in love is incredible. It's exciting, beautiful, funny, and, above all else, completely unique each and every time it happens. Fortunately enough, I've been able to experience this incredible process: the ups and downs, the smiles, the tears, and the feeling of being able totally share yourself with someone. I've been able to fall in love with a beautiful person, one who deserves to be showered with affection and should know exactly how much she means to me every single day. I often think I lack in reminding her how much she means to me, and I constantly look for new ways to show her just how important she is. Regardless, she deserves to know, and I hope this letter is able to make her feel what my words cannot say.

When we first met, I don't think either one of us expected to fall in love. In fact, I'm positive neither one of us did. That's the funny thing about love: it sneaks up on you when you least expect it. It means the most that you were able to look at me with an open mind and heart and allow yourself to roll with whatever came our way. You didn't count out any possibility, but you allowed time to take its course, which is one of the things I struggle with the most. You taught me that all good things come with time, and that, eventually, our relationship would come as well.

You were patient, but you knew that I wasn't so you were able to speed up the process a little bit (thank God,) although I would have waited as long as I needed to in order to get to where I wanted to be, which by now I knew was with you. You had opened my eyes and heart over such a short period of time. You had shown me the extent of what awaited me in this life if I was willing to take a chance. You taught me to look inside of myself, to take stock of where I was emotionally, and where I saw myself in the future. This took some time, but you guided me through it.

Our first few months together were probably how most relationships begin: we were enamored with each other. I would think of you constantly: the way you walked, the sound of your voice, the way your hair blew in the wind. The "honeymoon phase," as most couples call it. They definitely aren't wrong. It was true that I was unable to get you out of my mind, but I don't think anyone could have predicted that, to this day, I still cannot stop thinking about you.

We weren't together for long when we had our first test as a couple. Unfortunately, I had given this burden to you alone. It was something that I could help you with, but it was necessary for you to carry, mostly by yourself. You amazed me through this time, not only because of your strength, but because you were still able to show me your love. You were still able to make me feel safe. Most importantly, you were able to communicate to me what you knew I needed to hear. I can never be grateful enough for that.

Since then, we've grown a lot. We've had many laughs, tears, smiles, and fights. We've gone through what every couple goes through, but we're different. We're a little better than most. See, we have you.

You understand me as a person, but it goes further than that. Not only do you understand me as a person, but you understand me as a lover, as a believer in God, as a college student, and as a friend. As a best friend. You know me from so many different angles and in so many different ways, and it seemed almost effortless for you to grasp my personality, my quirks, my goofiness, my beliefs, my fears, and my love. You fell into my life and you fit perfectly. Puzzle pieces, as we say.

So thank you, beautiful girl. Thank you for taking charge when you know that I am too weak to do the right thing. Thank you for guiding me back to my path when I make a mistake. Thank you for not being too afraid to call me out on the excuses I use for myself. Thank you for inspiring me to look for the best parts of myself. Thank you for giving me the strength to work for what I have. Thank you for asking the most of me day in and day out. Thank you for being there when the world frightens me too much. Thank you for holding my hand on summer days and making me laugh. Thank you for not taking me too seriously, because you know how little time we actually have on this earth. Thank you for forgiving me when I make mistakes, because God knows I make millions. Thank you for holding me up, even when you know that I have the ability to do it on my own. Thank you for being my companion, my sweetheart, my guide, and my one true love. Most importantly, thank you for always being yourself. I fell in love with you seemingly right away, from the moment I met you. You've taught me countless lessons since then, and I'm sure you'll continue to teach me, both about myself and about love for many years to come.

If I ever lack in telling you how you mean to me, look at this letter. Know that I recognize just how lucky I am, even though I'm sure I forget to show it. I suck like that, but you should always know how special you are, how loved you are, and how appreciated you are. Not only by me, but by all of those who know you. You are, by far, one of the most incredible young women on this planet. Looking at you, I know that you will do great things, but I'm not sure you know it yourself just yet.

Finally, what we have holds its fair share of struggles. There will be tough times, but it is so worth it. Even the imperfect will be made perfect as long as you're by my side.

Here's to many more months, years, and future memories with you. I love you.