Through television, music, advertisement, and media, the emphasized need of a best friend is coming at society from every angle. While some are scrambling around looking for their one true “bff,” I luckily found mine years ago. Her name is Emily and truly I tell you, because of her love for God, love for me, and her personality wrapped up in a compassionately kind soul, she is the best friend a girl could have.

Anyone who knows Emily would know that her greatest accomplishment is, perhaps, the “Finally Living Bible Study” group she has created and lead all throughout her high school career. Being the God fearing woman she is, Emily wanted to start the bible study so her fellow Christian classmates could have a safe haven to go to on Friday nights rather than be tempted to attend illicit parties that other classmates were participating in. At first it was hard for her to understand why God would ask this of her when the only attendants where her immediate family, next door neighbor, boyfriend, and me, her best friend. However, because of her faith in God, she continued the bible study and as she grew physically and spiritually, so did the group. While she started with a group of five, four years later, she now speaks to over twenty high school kids within her living room every Friday night. Emily is such an example for me because of her compassion, kindness, and willingness to chase after God’s will. She is on fire for the Lord and I get to count her as family because she is my sister in Christ.

Our friendship is mutual for as much as she is my best friend, and by proof of acts of love, I know I am one of hers. Emily has shown me many a time that she is constantly ready to make sacrifices for my happiness. If ever I found myself in line ready to make a purchase but under calculated the cost, she would cover my expenses. Every single time I allowed myself to be upset over a boy, something someone else said about me, or the plans I had for my future, she was always there to listen and give advice. She is always in a mood to celebrate our friendship with Starbucks and long talks. One time Emily knew I had a major chemistry project due in a few days that was stressing me out so she brought me a basket filled with some of my favorite goodies. She had taken the time to pick out snacks, music, and supplies for my project along with a hand written note of encouragement about how much she believed in me. That was one of the most surprising moments I had throughout all of high school.

That’s just how Emily is. She has such a spunky and vibrant personality that could light up a room. I think that’s why she has done so well with the bible study; others can’t help but listen to what she has to say. Emily is constantly telling a story or a joke and someone is always intently listening to her. I remember on the bus ride home for one of our band competitions we had a story telling contest. Although I can’t remember specifically the content of the story, I very vividly remember the wide assortment of laughter that Emily pulled from everyone on the bus. I think she is so good at making others feel comfortable because she so well lovingly sees all people through the eyes of God.

Most of my teenage memories consist of laughing, crying, singing, and dancing with Emily Edwards. I was initially drawn to her love of God and as I got to really know her, she began to love me the person I was. Now we get to grow up and live life together. I am truly blessed to call Emily my sister in Christ and my best friend.