I am so proud of you. I am proud of you for going the extra mile, or 318, to reach for what you really want. I am proud of you for packing up and moving to a whole new state and making your dreams come true. I am proud of all of these milestones of yours, you weird chicken. You radiate compassion and support to everyone around you, and for that reason alone I am so fortunate to be your friend. You support me spiritually by always enveloping me in love and laughter. You support me physically by spending the evening with me when I told you my breathing did not feel normal. You are always willing to give what you can at the most inconvenient times for yourself. Thank you for being there when I needed you the most.

You inspire me to think critically about the impact I want to make. You push me to really listen to my heart and take action for what I want. You have taught me that if an opportunity does not present itself, then there is nothing wrong with creating the opportunity yourself.

I remember starting papers at midnight in the basement of our dorm, arriving to 8am dance aerobics at 8:01am, and ridiculous amounts of flashcards. It really has all paid off. We are both learning to navigate this post-grad life and trying to absorb as much information as we can from everyone else that looks like they know what they are doing.

Now, we are creating our own paths in life and trying not to stumble too much along the way. I know that we are far apart in distance, but I want you to know that I carry you in my heart. Even far away, I am always here for you.

I hope now, just like back then, you are treating yourself to some McDudes to celebrate these great accomplishments! Keep changing the world. You are such a light in my life.