To my guy best friend,

You inspire me in more ways than one, and I am so thankful God put you in my life when he did.

I still remember that night when you sent me a DM about an Odyssey article I wrote about my previous struggles with anorexia. I was super freaked out at first (as you know) because I didn't realize how vulnerable writing Odyssey articles can make you. You so boldly shared your story with me, and we laughed, cried, and shared our struggles within those few hours of meeting. I think that's when I knew we'd be best friends.

We are similar in more ways than just one. You are the person I go to when I'm struggling with school/life/stress because I know you won't judge me for any of it. You are simply a listening ear who will also call me out on my bullshit when need be.

I still remember those few weeks where I was really at risk for relapsing about this time last year. I wouldn't talk about it with anyone but you because I knew you understood everything. You helped me get through it by making me realize that I was stronger than the ED voices inside my head.

You have been there for me to bitch about the boys I've dated, and I've been there to listen to you talk about the girls you have dated. Your advice is usually pretty solid in that you always tell me to just become a cat lady, and I'm pretty sure I would have already taken you up on it if Longwood allowed pets in residential housing. I also love our pact (that I pretty much forced upon you) to get married if both of us are still single by the time we're 50.

Thank you for being just as obsessed with The Office, babies, running, and stupid people as I am.

And lastly, thank you for all that you are. In changing colleges, majors, and dealing with sports injuries (all at once), you have shown true resilience. Through our late-night phone calls, country song lyrics you send me at 2 am, and the too many times you have made me roll my eyes at the things you say (because I'm clearly not hip), I know you will thrive in this life and help so many people. I am so proud of everything you are and everything you are going to be.

Don't give up, because I don't know what I'd do without you!

Love, your girl best friend

P.S. Don't you dare get a mullet like you've always talked about. You'll look like Billy Ray Cyrus from the 90s... just no.