It’s funny, most of the articles I’ve written this summer have been about how I hate my hometown and need to get back to school ASAP. Well, I’ve given it a couple weeks and realize my hometown isn’t so bad–it just doesn’t have my heart anymore. However, there are some things in this hometown that will always have my heart. I’d like to shout-out to someone I’ve realized will always be my best friend.
When we met our sophomore year of high school, I had no idea it would turn into the friendship that we have now. I remember you inviting me to go on a family vacation with you and I had never even hung out with you before that. I was sure this trip might be a little awkward, but it was the exact opposite. We clicked instantly and had the best time. I knew from that trip on that I had a best friend. What I didn’t know is how many thank you’s I was going to owe you in the years to come.
Thank you for loving me for who I am, despite any flaw or quirk. Knowing I had someone like you, I never felt like I had to try and “fit in” with any kind of friend group in high school. We both had different friends as well, but we always knew we had each other no matter what. You’ve always made me feel enough and as if my insecurities are my strengths.
Thank you for standing by my side no matter what. I honestly wish I could say our friendship never had a falling out, but I can’t. I got all wrapped up and lost sight of what was really important. While we’re at it, I’ll go ahead and say sorry for that too. I thought when we started hanging out and becoming friends again, it may be awkward and just not work out. I couldn’t have been more wrong. We picked up where we left off. There were no awkward apologies or discussions about the past because we both knew that it was probably for the best. We both had the chance to grow a little on our own and then bring those experiences together.
Thank you for giving me a second family. Your mom has always treated me as one of her own and I pick on your brother enough that you’d think he’s mine. Thank you for letting me borrow (for weeks at a time) clothes from your closet. Thank you for not saying a word when that 8:00 am alarm clock went off and we both just went back to sleep.
Thank you for the countless jam sessions in the car. You always know what song I want to hear and if you don’t have it, you are quick to YouTube it. Thanks for never saying the music is too loud and never complaining when we’ve listened to 400 Taylor Swift songs. Thanks for being the Hans to my Anna.
Thanks for always being down for a good time. Your optimism is what keeps me going and your strength is inspiring. I am so glad we met at cross country practice and bonded over practically everything. Being quite honest, we probably bonded the most as we cried internally (maybe a little externally too) when coach said it was track workout day.
The list goes on and on. Thank you for bringing laughter and happiness to my life. I made the mistake of not choosing you once, and I promise it is not a mistake I want to make again. Thank you for being one of a kind. Most importantly, thank you for showing me that my hometown isn’t so bad.
I love you.
