At some point in your life, you will meet that one person who just gets you. That one person who becomes your go-to, your best friend, your other half.

This person embodies a different sense of the definition of family. Your family is a predetermined relationship, an unspoken pact of unconditional love and support.

This person is someone you meet at the most random but perfect time.

This person is someone you tell everything to because you know he/she will listen without judgment and understand you.

This person is someone you drop everything for because you know he/she would do the same for you in a heartbeat.

This person is someone who is there through it all: every accomplishment, every change, every heartbreak, every special occasion, every failure, every spontaneous adventure.

* * *

You never ask for this person.

You do not expect to meet someone who is basically another version of yourself.

You do not think there is someone out there who understands you completely.

You do not know that someone will selflessly give you loyalty, friendship, trust, patience, and encouragement.

You do not realize that this person exists and is capable of completely changing your life.

You do not feel as though there is a piece missing that can only be filled by this person.

* * *

My person brings out the best in me. It's not a weak friendship that turns everything into a competition. It's not a relationship dictated by insecurities, discomfort, or fear. It's not an arrangement created out of convenience or obligation.

My person grows with me, laughs with me, cries with me, stresses with me, and experiences life with me.

My person pushes me to be a better student, friend, daughter, sister, and person.

My person gives me sound and wise advice, but also respects and supports my decisions.

My person praises me and boosts my confidence because sometimes I have doubts and weaknesses I cannot overcome alone. I am forever thankful for my person. I can only reciprocate what she has offered me and taught me, and be that person she needs in her life.

* * *

It's almost as if you were destined to meet this person in your lifetime. I don't regard myself as someone who believes in fate or destiny. I grew up in the absence of religion so I never really believed or actively thought there was a higher, godly power watching over me.

Now as a 19-year-old who has lost friends and been through relationships, I have a strong sense of who I am, what I want, and who really matters to me. I am a strong believer in what is meant to be. As cheesy as it sounds, I am convinced that everything happens for a reason. I met my person when I did not know I needed her.

I know now she is and always will be the one person I need in my life.