Dear Roommate,
The first time we talked, we clicked. Right off the bat I knew I had met someone special. It's not everyday you easily make conversation with a random stranger. That's what we were at the time - strangers. But now, we're more than that.
We're roommates.
What does it mean to be a roommate? There's a lot to this question, and a lot of different answers. Some may say it means to coexist. Others may argue that your roommate is your best friend for life. In the (less than) two months that we've been living together, here's what my answer is.
1. Laughing at everything
If you haven't yet noticed, I laugh at everything. Whether this is a good thing or not is up for debate, but it seems that you laugh at everything, too. Fro random Risky Business impersonations to flatulence, I love that we find humor in so many things.
2. Knowing when to give space
On the first day here, we determined what would be best if one of us gets emotional or angry - we give space. Just tell me when to leave you alone, or when I should step outside. I'll respect it. As the year goes on, I hope I'll be able to figure it out on my own. As for now, I'll try my best, but please, don't hesitate to speak up.
3. Accepting constructive criticism
We're not always going to like what we have to say to each other, but it's necessary. I would hope that when I'm making a huge mistake or if I do something wrong, you would tell me. It's important to be able to encourage and support each other, no matter how harsh the words may be.
4. Changing previous habits
Six months ago, we were strangers. We abided by the rules of our parents and didn't even think about living on our own. Now, it's just us. We have no one to tell us how to fold the laundry, when to clean our room, or where to put our dirty shoes. We create the rules (as long as they don't pose a fir hazard, per request by the college). That might mean altering the ways we're used to, and I'm totally cool with that.
5. Being there no matter what
If you're stuck on a chemistry problem, I'll help. If you need a shoulder to cry on, I'll be there. If you're asthma is acting up and you need me to piggy back you home from Walmart, I'll do it. I want you to know you can come to me with anything, and that whenever you need me, I'll be there for you (*cough cough reference to Friends cough cough*).
6. Making sacrifices
As I write this article, you ask if I want to go to breakfast with you, and I will. You're more important. This isn't a big sacrifice, since I absolutely love food, but you get the point. There are going to be times when I want to do something, but will give it up for you because this is what friends (talk about a step in our relationship - I just called us friends) do.
7. Talking Endlessly
I must confess, I love the nights we stay up till 1 am just talking about random stuff. We already rant to each other, which is fantastic. I feel like our mouths never stop running. When we finally shut up, I don't mind the quietness either. I think it's nice that we can sit together in silence and not feel awkward.
8. Bonding over random things
"So no one told you life was gonna be this way" (Friends reference, which you totally get because we're equally obsessed). No, they really didn't. We're poor; we're overwhelmed; we miss home, but at least we're in it together. Whether it's a random tv show or a mutual food allergy, I love discovering what we have in common.
9. Having an instant buddy
Remember the buddy system in kindergarten? The same thing applies in college - don't go anywhere alone and always hold hands (metaphorically speaking, of course). With you by my side, we're unstoppable, mini ninjas.
10. Forming Memories
Remember that time when I farted in your bed? Ah, the good, ole 18 hour fart story. Or how about that time my fish almost died? Remember the day when we did everything we could do get our one pack of Ramen back from the neighbors? I didn't dress like a ninja for nothing
11. Living with an incredible person
That's it. You wanted an article completely dedicated to you, so I'm getting mushy. Excuse me, you more than wanted it - you demanded it. You are amazing. I'm so lucky that we ended up living together.
Oh, and stop snoring.
Love,
Me, your roommate
