Dear Patience,

You are, without a doubt, the kindest person I have ever met. You are one of those people who has the remarkable ability to see the good in everyone, the potential in everything, the light in every darkness. You are someone who is just genuinely joyful, even when it's hard to be, and I admire you for that.

I've been trying to pinpoint the moment when you became one of my best friends, and I think it must have happened sometime our Junior year of high school. We had always run in similar circles, but I think we had a conversation about a book or a movie and from that point on, we were kindred spirits.

Your devotion to art, especially animation, really inspired me to fully embrace my own creativity. I had always written stories for my own enjoyment, but it wasn't until I shared some with you that I realized I wanted to be a writer for the rest of my life. Your creative opinions are more valuable to me thank you could know; that's probably why I tell you about every little idea I have.

Beyond that, though, I feel like I get to be the best version of myself when I'm your friend. I get to be kind and creative, and I never have to fear judgement. I know that if I come to you with even the saddest feeling, you'll offer some bright perspective that turns even the most oppressive obstacle into an opportunity for growth. Also, I know that I can always find a fellow fangirl in you; even if you don't like the book/show/movie as much as I do, you'll find some way to encourage my enthusiasm, and I think that's just grand.

I hope you know that just as you've always been one of my biggest supporters, I will always be one of yours.

— Ashley