To the men who have been everything they didn't have to be:
Thank you. I know it hasn't been easy to put up with me, love me, or get through to me, yet you never gave up. I know you've hated every boyfriend who broke me, you've hated watching me tear myself down over someone who didn't even care about me, and you've hated listening to all of the horrible things that happened. You have given me insight on so many things, homework, life, cars, oil changes; you were all there for me when no one else was and for that, I will forever be grateful.
I know it isn't easy trying to take the role that technically isn't yours, however in my heart you have been placed perfectly. You are the people I go to when I just don't understand why something is happening, how to fix it, or where to go next. I know I can always depend on you for a pizza date (with a rose), a home cooked meal, a reality check, but most of all a shoulder to lean on. I know I can always depend on getting "the talk" when I don't call, don't show. However no matter how many times I blow you guys off, don't call, forget to say happy birthday, you're all still there cheering me on.
The greatest part about you is that you didn't have to take the role, you chose to. You picked me and I picked you. You all know me better than I know myself some days, and when I get lost in the madness you're sure to bring me straight back to reality, even if it's painful. I know there have been days you probably couldn't stand me and my horrible attitude, mornings you wish I wasn't awake at the same times as you, and days where you wish I would stop asking so many damn questions. But you never blink an eye when I need you most.
I'm sure when we met you didn't think we'd be as close as we are now, regardless of if it was 17 years ago or a year and a half ago. You have impacted my life in ways I will never be able to explain or appreciate enough. You have been the male figure in my life who I can actually depend on, even when the going gets tough. You never walk away when I'm at the verge of a breakdown, you don't care how many times I tell you the same stories just because I'm super excited about it, you celebrate with me, but you also calm me.
So thank you, thank you for loving me in all of the ways you never had to. For taking care of me on during my darkest hours. For always ensuring me everything will be alright. And for talking shit about all those boys who broke my heart. I wouldn't be who I am without the help of you. I know I don't appreciate you enough, so here's to you.
