Dear Best Friend,

I walked into a room with anxiety running rampant in my mind. I knew almost no one and was afraid to say anything for the fear of being perceived as awkward. I do not know how you were feeling that day, but when I saw you and you asked me something, I felt ten times better knowing that someone was not afraid to talk to me.

The rest of that summer we did not talk as much, and I thought our aquaintance was short lived, but God had differnt plans. Our junior year of high school, we were placed in the same leadership program and had the opportunity to grow closer, as we laughed about silly inside jokes that only we and the walls would understand.

The greatest growth in our friendship happened, however, when we began opening up to eachother about our individual struggles. Ironically (but not by coincidence), our problems were often similar.

I would just like to say thank you for everything: whether it be heartbreak, anxiety, or anger, you have listened to me rant about it all. And I cannot express my gratitude enough for how blessed I am to be entrusted with your troubles as well.

Those nights where we pour our hearts out to each other, sobbing as we eat our poorly-made brownies will forever be cherished and needed. Thank you also for the times where you told me I would be an idiot for doing something, but taking me in like a wounded puppy when I did it anyways.

You are beautiful. Sometimes I become jealous, as I see your kind heart and outgoing personality. Then God reminds me of how I should not be envious but, instead, thankful. Your sassiness and spunk remind me of why I need to have bail money at all times (not really.... okay maybe, really). And your heart to serve others and serve God is why I look up to you so often. It is so wonderful to not only have a best friend but a role model. After praying for a person like you for song long, having you as a sidekick is a constant reminder of God's faithfulness.

Growing up, I was always heartbroken by the fact that I did not have a best friend. I had (and still have) some great pals, but none have known me better than you. Even though we did not meet at middle school orientation, or grow up across the street from one another, God knew exactly when to place us in each other's lives.

During junior year, life becomes crazy as we are preparing for college, and before you know it college is knocking at the door. As life began to change for both of us, we were able to grow through those changes together, and I am so excited to experience the future with you in it. For 16 years I searched for someone who would fight through my awkwardness, my anxiety, my scattered-brain-ness, and still want to be my friend. I am forever grateful God chose that one person to be you.

Love,

Me