It’s automatically assumed that long distance relationships or friendships don’t last. And in some cases, that might be true. But for me and this particular friend of mine, it’s not. If you’ve never had a close friend move away, let me just go ahead and tell you it SUCKS! Especially when it’s someone you’re used to spending every moment with them. Every event, she was there. Right by my side. Good or bad, she never left.

Miki and I met through mutual friends. We started hanging around the same crowd, seeing each other every weekend through other friends of ours. Then it got to where we invited each other places. Whether it was going out to eat or just riding around town, blaring SoMo with the windows down. To me, the moment I knew this girl was a forever friend, was when I lost 4 people that were very close and dear to me. We hadn’t been hanging out for very long and we really weren’t as close. But I kid you not, that girl texted me every day to make sure I was okay. She made sure I was taken care of, and that I had someone to talk to if I need it. It’s so weird how you can be strangers one day, and then the next become best friends.

Miki is a rare individual. I could literally go on for days telling you all about her, but I’ll spare you the novel on this go round. Just know, if you ever have a chance to meet her, cherish every moment of it. Because people like her, don’t exist in this world anymore.

Our friendship is intense in the way that we both seem unwilling or unable to lose track of one another. Even though her moving away was a bit of a change, it didn’t change anything. This girl is my soulmate, I don’t care what anyone says.. Your soulmate does not have to be someone of the opposite sex or your significant other. Your soulmate is the one person who knows you better than anyone else. It’s one person who knew you, and accepted you and believed in you before anyone else did or when no one else would. We always joke around and say, “Omg, I swear we’re the same person.” Because in most ways, we are.We have this saying we always say to each other when we’re down or upset and we just need something to keep our spirits alive. On a daily basis we remind each other to “Stay Gold”. We’ve always been told our hearts are made of gold. If you’ve ever seen Outsiders, you’ll know that’s where it came from. But our meaning is a little different. When we say “Stay Gold” it reminds us that no matter how hurt you are, and no matter how hateful this world may be, to always stay true to yourself and NEVER let things change your heart.

It's kind of hard living life while she's miles away, because every little thing that happens, I always wish she was there with me. It seems like something is always missing when she's not around. I am forever thankful for this friendship God has blessed me with. If you have a friend like Miki, hold on tight and never let go. These kind of friendships come around once in a lifetime, and if you’re lucky, they'll even drive all the way to Alabama to surprise you during your family vacation.

"Sunday school this morning at church had me thanking the Lord really hard for you. This may even sound weird coming from me lol but our lesson was on friends. And how there are different types. Teacher described the most effective friendship being the friendship that is a selfless friendship. Where there isn't anything owed. We're just solely there for each other through everything for each other’s well-being. Feeding off of each other. And it's not who can get what or more out of each other. I am truly thankful for you Sam & I hope you never forget how much you truly mean to me." – Miki

I love you Mik, & Always remember, "Stay Gold".