As graduation approaches, I reflect on the people who helped me get to where I am today:
1. The long-distance best friend.
You grew up with this person but did not go to college with them. After the first semester, you had to give updates about every friend you'd made and every event that occurred. Maybe you didn't talk as much as you used to, but you've made it this far, so you'll be friends the rest of your life.
2. The significant other.
Whether it was one or several, the guy or gal you dated in college loved and cared for you in ways that shaped, changed and supported you like no one else could. They were your rock and voice of reason, your biggest
3. The mom.
While your real mom probably played a huge role, everyone had a college friend who was their campus mom. This friend made sure you did your homework, got enough sleep, and took care of yourself. They were there to prevent bad choices... or clean up the mess.
4. The one who gets you through classes.
This is the person who is incredibly intelligent, yet kind enough to stoop down to your level to help you succeed. They simultaneously built up your confidence and your GPA. You would literally not be graduating without them.
5. The "say it how it is" friend.
This is the person who was not afraid to tell you the truth. Often times, you hated him or her for it but in the end, you knew they were right.
6. The last-minute friend.
This is the friend that you met right before they graduated, or right before you graduated. You immediately connected and wondered, "Where have you been my whole life?!"
7. The big brother.
This is the guy who was a couple of years older but still cared about you so much. Although he graduated a few years ago and you haven't seen him for a while, you know you could pick up right where you left off.
8. The friend who always hurt you.
This is the friend who let you down, but you continued to be there for them. They are the one who taught you how to forgive and love. You know they will disappoint you again, but you still choose them.
9. The little sister.
This is the friend you took under your wing and who you dropped everything to help when they called at 2 AM. You have been their shoulder to cry on, their protector, and their chauffeur so they would get ice cream in the middle of the night. You'd give your life for this friend.
10. The one that got away.
It could be an ex-lover, a friend that transferred, or someone who passed away. You think about them daily and you miss them more than you thought was possible. You wish you could go back and relive the time you had with them.
These people have helped shaped me intellectually, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. They were the constant friend or the semester acquaintance. They cared for me in ways they may not know. Without these ten people, I would not be the person I am today. Thank you for being apart of my life.
