Dear High School Youth Group,
When I found you, I never thought I would call you home. I never thought I'd call you family. It took a bit of time to warm up to you, but once I realized you were just as crazy as I was, I found I could not live without you. Through the ridiculous years together, you've seen every side of me. From quiet and shy to overly energetic and sometimes overboard, you've seen it all and accepted every bit of it. You've seen me laugh and even cry, and in either instant, you did not hesitate to share the moment with me.
Now, I don't think I've ever formally thanked you, so here it is. Thank you for being there to hold me up. Thank you for being there when the tears fell or the anxiety hit. Thank you for reminding me there's more to church than just Jesus. Church is the people. Church is my family. Church is you. You were there to lead me home when I drifted away. You held me down on a firm foundation and kept me grounded. You kept me motivated and helped me push through the toughest of times and hold on to the best.
I will never forget you. I will never forget the countless nights playing games, watching movies and eating junk, or even just sitting around having pointless conversations. Those are the memories I will hold forever. You have filled a special place in my heart that can never be replaced. With the words of encouragement, realism, and comfort, you have guided me through the toughest years of life. Again, I thank you! Without you, I'd still be a wanderer. I'd still be searching for my home, for my friends, for myself. You have shown me what it means to love and to live.
Leaving you and moving on in separate ways was hard. Now we are spread out across cities, states, and even countries. The only contact we keep is through social media and texting. But, those college breaks when we all return home, I know you will be there to welcome me back with open arms. You have not forgotten me. I have not forgotten you. That is one thing that will always remain true.
No matter how far we travel, how many years we spend apart, or how rarely we talk, know I will be here. You will always have me to count on. I know the same is true for me. I know you will always be there when I turn around and need someone to go to because everyone else is gone. You will be there after I graduate college and all my college friends move on. You will be at my wedding. You will be there. Wherever. Whenever. For that, I thank you!
Sincerely,
Your friend from church
