The internet gave me a soulmate and I am forever grateful.
For as long as I can remember, people have taught me to view cyberspace as unstable and dangerous. The only thing the internet has to offer is a bunch of predators scheming around to capture and kill me. Under any circumstances, I should never give out my real name or pictures, and only talk to people I know personally
Well... oops.
Now I know that there's a real threat when talking to strangers online and it should NOT be seen as a joke. However, when I practiced being mindful and using proper precautions, I ran into the right people. So instead of finding an old creepy stalker ready to plot my death, I ended up with a best friend. A normal best friend. Not a creepy stalker. Just to clarify.
So, there it is. I met my best friend online. No matter how many times I go over possible scenarios in my head, I know there's no way our paths could have ever crossed in person on their own. Yet, that's not the main thought that fills my mind about our friendship. I wonder and wonder and wonder what my life would be like without them. How different would I be? Would I be less open-minded? Would I not know the comfort of a best friend? Would I still be afraid of everyone who lurks in cyberspace? I don't know, and I don't ever want to know.
For those who don't understand online friendships or relationships, I know how crazy my friends and I may seem. How could I possibly form real connections with people I can't physically see or touch? I guess somewhere in between the hour long phone calls, our deep lectures over text, and in the countless of Skype sleepovers I found that real connection. Distance is only an inconvenience to my friendships, not a deal breaker. And sometimes I feel as though my online best friend is there for me more than those around me. The friends I have met through the internet have wiped my tears so many more times than friends who see me daily. Online, I found friends who give me acceptance and support.
My friends are worth every mile in between us. Sure, there's nothing I want more than to hop on the next flight out and run into their arms right now but that day will come. Until then I will practice patience and hold their hand from the other side of the world. So to sum all of this up... I am always thankful to the internet. The online friendships I have formed make me who I am today. I am happier, wiser, and even more loving.
Online friends are real friends too. And I will cherish them forever.
