When I say first friends I am not talking about the friendships that lasted four seconds in pre-school because the kid at your table shared their crayons with you. I mean the friendships that taught you what it means to have and be a friend. The first true friendship you ever had. I am sure you can all remember that person (or people). If you are really lucky, maybe you are still friends, but life goes on and people change so it is not tragic if you have gone your separate ways.
To My First Friends,
Obviously I want to thank you, not only for sticking with me through the awkward stages and embarrassing moments, but for having such a huge role in shaping the person I have become. The two of you showed me what it truly meant to be a friend and to have a friend. We were selfless, caring, and only wanted the best for one another; qualities I now realize not all friendships possess.
My list of reasons why I am grateful for you two is endless. From giving me the best summers to opening your homes as though I had always lived there. The two of you have added so much to my life. Words will never sufficiently explain how thankful I am. I would rather focus on the countless memories we have created over the last 15 years. Summer bucket lists, lazy beach days, and "family" vacations ... every one of our memories still makes me smile.
Our friendship was never dull. This could be accredited to our youth. There were still many firsts to embark on. We also experienced so many ups and downs before we turned sixteen; full on breakdowns and incurable diseases. Life was not always easy, but definitely more manageable knowing the two of you were there.
We have come a long way from attending parent-chaperoned play dates. The three of us have created our own lives, pursuing different interests. We have moved on to colleges all over the Tri-State area, keeping in touch is not always easy. There is homework, meetings, and games that are now contending for our attention. We will continue to grow older, change into completely new people. Our priorities will shift and we will live in different places. However, that bond we created, the summers we spent together, and the memories we made will always be ours; something to look back on when we are feeling a little nostalgic.
I want to end by letting you know that I cherish those moments we get to spend together now or those rare conversations we still have over trivial things. Wherever life takes us, I will always consider the two of you my friends.
Love,
Me
