This one goes to you ...
We've known each other for 15 years. In fact, I'd say we know each other pretty well. I'm glad we met all those years ago. When I moved here, you welcomed me with open arms. Not only have you opened me up to amazing people, but you've also taught me that just because it looks pretty from the outside, doesn't mean it's just as pretty on the inside. You know that better than anyone.
You've given me some of the best and worst years of my life. Because of you, I met my best friend. However, because of you, I've also lost my best friend. I may be in college now, but I always come back to you.
You create a feeling of home. I think of you, and I think of when I was in elementary school and how I met my first friend. I think of you, and I think of when I fell knee deep into a mud hole and lost my shoe. I think of you, and I remember the house on the corner that always terrified me on Halloween. I think of you, and I remember the whole town coming together to watch Fourth of July parade every year. I hear your name, and my childhood is played on a loop in my mind.
Of all the positives you've given me, you've created just as many negatives.
I've always admired your aesthetic, but never your personality. You may look quaint and humble, but you spread rumors like wildfire. Nothing is ever a secret. You made it hard to trust anyone. There are a handful of genuine people here. Unfortunately, you're also the home to many superficial gossips.
What it comes down to is, even after everything we've been through together, after so many tragedies that would make me not want to ever come back, I always come back to you. I come back because, even though there are so many painful memories, the few good ones I have are really good — the feeling of accomplishment as I sat on the field during graduation, meeting Santa in the park during Christmas time when I was young and exploring the woods with my friends when we were kids.
I come back for those memories. I come back for the handful of people who mean a lot to me, for the people who've made my time here extraordinary, for the people I trust and love and for my best friends. I come back for them.
One day, when I'm all grown up and on my own, I'll think about you. I'll think of the times we laughed and we cried. I'll remember the first time I got burned by you. I'll remember the first time I knew my best friends were my best friends.
We may have a love/hate relationship, but you'll always have a special place in my heart. You are my longest relationship, and no town will ever compare to you.
Thank you for all you've given me and all you've taught me over the last 15 years, I'll never forget you.
Forever Yours,
Me
