As a young, naive girl, I truly thought you were my forever. I thought we'd be together till death do us part, but we got older and times got harder. Forever was just not in the cards for us anymore. When everything first fell apart between us, I know we both felt like nothing would ever be okay again. We both had fears we'd never be able to love like that again, because what we shared together was so rare.

Getting over you was like getting over a death. Because, in a way, it really was. I lost a huge piece of me. I lost my best friend, my boyfriend, and the only one who truly knew me in my entirety. But, I don't regret a second of any of it. The good times, the bad times, and the worst of times all shaped me into the person I am today. A lot of people talk poorly about their exes after bad break-ups, and there was even a time I'd talk like that about you. But as more time goes by since we've parted ways, I've developed a deeper level of respect for you.

I want to take this time to thank you. For everything you were for and to me, for the unconditional love you always gave me, for all the times you were there when no one else was - even after we split up. For always having respect for me, always caring, and still being there if I ever needed anything. As I've gotten older, I realize more and more how rare the friendship we've shared throughout the years is. We aren't typical exes, that's for sure. For so long, we went through life only having each other to rely on. So, when I say I am the person I am today because of you, it's the purest sentence out there.

Without meeting you so many years ago, I wouldn't be the strong, independent, caring person that I am today. So, thank you - for loving me the way you did, for letting things end when they did, and for being my friend. Forever wasn't for us, but the lessons I learned from you and our relationship will forever be with me. You've moved on and found love again, which you'd think would make me sad, but I couldn't be happier for you. You deserve it more than anyone. And I believe I've found love too, but even if mine doesn't last, I'm glad you're finally getting everything you've ever wanted. I'm glad you're succeeding in life and becoming the person you always wanted to be. I may not be a huge part of your life anymore, but I'll always be in your corner and proud of who you are. I'll always have so much care and respect for you, and I wish you the best in life.

Lastly, thank you for being my first real love.

From,

Your Homie