Hey,

I have tried writing this time and time again, but I could never seem to find the words to really say how I was feeling. Now that time has passed, and we are older, here is a letter to you – the best friend whose relationship drifted away.

We were inseparable; I don’t think that anyone ever expected us to end up this way. Though we drifted, and that’s okay – it was part of the universe’s plan, I guess. You and I were always there for one another through hard, happy and unforgettable times. You were my first call when things went wrong, and when something funny, embarrassing or awkward happened. I cannot thank you enough for holding my hand through all of these times, and genuinely just being you. Please know that you are kind, good and smart, and that you deserve the absolute world.

I’m sorry – I’m sorry that we grew apart and our friendship drifted away. We used to be connected at the hip, and now it seems the harmonization between us has gone away. It seems like just yesterday we were middle and high school aged kids laughing at funny things on YouTube, staying up late watching our favorite movies at my house and prioritizing our friendship. Now, we lead two separate lives – ones that don’t play board games all night, share new music and cross paths anymore. However, this is okay – I don’t have any hostile feelings and I only want to see the best for your life.

Understand that your friendship is one of my favorite parts of my past. Most of my memories from those awkward teenage years include you – all of which are my favorite. When I reflect on our friendship, I can only pray that my kids will have a friend like I had in you – genuine, fun and unforgettable.

Going through old pictures or telling my new friends stories from my friendship with you used to hurt and leave a very bitter taste in my mouth. I think this was because I missed the open friendship that we had, and I was so sure that it would never be repaired. You are such a good, kind-hearted person, and our memories and stories are ones that I will keep close to my heart, and tell my grandchildren about someday.

I wish you the absolute best in whatever crazy path life takes you down. We have taken different routes, but whenever these paths cross again, please know that I will still be there and will embrace you with open arms. I know that you are radiating and being the best you can possibly be – as you always did. Keep doing your thing, working hard and keeping your head up. The world cannot be cruel to someone with your heart.

When people ask about you, or the friendship we once had, it is often difficult for me to refer to you as an “ex-best friend” because I feel as if that is not the case. I believe we are best friends who solely drifted from one another in a completely misfortunate way. The hurt feelings, distance and miscommunication mean nothing to me, and I hope you think the same. I will consider you a friend forever, no matter how much time passes. If you ever need anything, know that I will always be here.

We may not be able to communicate just by looks anymore and I may not be the person you tell absolutely everything to anymore, but that’s fine. I had my time in that role, and now someone else will be blessed with your personality, funny stories and enthusiasm over the smallest things. I hope this person knows just how lucky they are.

You were such a blessing in my life, and you had a huge impact on why I became who I am today. You helped push me to achieve my goals, made me realize that I deserved more than our small town and that boys who break my heart aren’t worth my time. I am so thankful that you were placed in my life, even if it was only for a chapter. Without you, I’m not sure if I would have made it through all of the awkward days and stages we had growing up.

So thank you for the memories. Thank you for the laughs. Thank you the thousands of embarrassing pictures. Thank you for holding my hand through the awkward stages. Thank you for providing me with a second family. Thank you for all of your support through those years. Thank you for loving and accepting me, even when I was a pain in the butt. Thank you for always being you. Thank you for being my best friend.

I cannot wait to see you excel in life and continue to grow into an even better person than you are – if that’s even possible.

Love always,

A Best Friend for Life