Hey you,
You know who you are, and you know that you've taught me so much. Words are never enough to thank you, but I’m using them as a start to whatever the future holds. I’ve been thinking about you for five years now. It’s been a pretty long ride. These past two have been rough, I definitely liked it better by your side. Either way, you’ll always be one of my best friends. With or without your presence, I am reminded daily of who you helped me be, and how happy you make me.
You taught me to take risks. Get bloody knees, get hairlines on my ribs torn. You taught me to push myself. I still don’t stop, even if you’re not watching.
You taught me to be vulnerable. You said I was never afraid of getting hurt. I never was by you. Even after I have been, I’m not afraid with you. For you, I take the risk. Every single time.
You taught me to forgive my father. You forgave yours. You taught me forgiveness is more for yourself, as opposed to the other person. You helped me get to a place where I could forgive.
You taught me to love my mother. She loves you right back, and you strengthened our relationship through that. No matter where you and I stand, you’re always on good terms with her. And I have always noticed that. And I have always appreciated it because for her and for me, you are a common denominator we both care very much for.
You taught me to ask for help. I spent high school (for the most part) alone, and you helped me with things I couldn’t do. You taught me to cook pasta and how to exercise. You taught me that I could do either at my own discretion. I appreciated it. I asked for it. I don’t forget it.
You taught me confidence. I feel that even if I am not good at everything, I am good at enough. Enough that you, and others, notice. Enough that you think I am more than. You are good at enough, too. I convince you of this, although forever wish you knew it for yourself. I always hold you to a higher standard, but also on a higher pedestal than me. You are better than me, even more so when you think I’m better than you.
You taught me love. God damn, the world gets in our way. I let it, and you accept it. No matter the time, situation, or distance- I love you. I am lucky to believe you love me. I love you. For who you are, for who you’ve always been. We both get into situations that question our character. We both jump back and forth- but Velcro or not- we’ve always been lucky enough to land back together. No matter what your stage in life, I never question you. I trust your process. I allow you to trust mine.
You taught me to live. Neither of our lives have been easy nor short; they have just been. We are children, and I allow us to make mistakes because I believe it makes us stronger. I believe it will make us stronger. No matter what the future holds, I know you’re the greatest teacher I’ve ever had. I am not superior to you. I am only lucky to have had you teach me for so long.
Love forever and always,
Erin Sue.
