One major lesson learned while growing up is that friendships are temporary. Throughout your school-age years your friend group will inevitably change, and at times, you may feel like you’re left to take on the world alone. As for me, I never had to feel as if I was taking on the world alone because I always had my other half beside me; my cousin.

Cousin, it’s been you and I, for as long as I can remember. We made it through elementary school, our awkward middle school years and lastly, high school, together. At least, we both got to experience the awkward stages together so that when we reflect back on pictures, we both can grimace in mutual pain. Thank you for participating in the countless photoshoots I felt were necessary, even though I had to sometimes use force to get you in the picture.

Also, to this day I appreciate your understanding towards the fact that I need to be on “my good side,” when taking pictures. Middle school and high school showed us both how truly cruel girls can be, but at the end of the day we always had each other, and that was more than enough.

We have a connection. When we were younger we could even be considered twins with our similar light, curly hair. Just one look from each other and we can read how the other is feeling, just like telepathy we can communicate, with out words. It is a simple task for us to see when one another is upset, and it is even easier a task for us to fix each other.

We have our opposites, but ultimately that is what makes us closer, and teaches us to appreciate each other’s different opinions. No one gets me like you do, that and for that, I know how lucky I am to have you in my life.

Every milestone that has occurred in life we were able to witness beside each other. Family parties, formals, proms, heartbreaks, graduations, weddings, and funerals. We have seen the positives and negatives that life can hand to us.

As for family dinners, they would not be complete unless you and I were placed next to each other. Nothing brings me more comfort than knowing you’re the one I get to experience all these events with.

You’re my backbone and keep me sane on my weakest days. We know each other’s deepest secrets and I know I can trust you with my whole heart. Sometimes we don’t even have to say anything when the other is upset, just the presence of each other is comforting.

Your honesty is always appreciated when I need your advice because I know you want what’s best for me, just as I want for you. There is no better security than knowing someone has your best interest at heart.

Thank you for always being the best friend that never left, for the countless memories and adventures we have already created, and for the rest that have yet to happen. Love you always, cousin.