Dear Best Friend,

First of all, I want to tell you how proud I am of you. Since you were 12 years old, you have wanted to help those who are in need. Your very first ride-along confirmed your dreams: to, one day, become a law enforcement officer.

I could not do what you strive to do one day. In this day and age, it seems as though every time we turn around, there is some new report of an officer shot, or an officer killed in the line of duty.

I’m scared for you. You are my best friend. I honestly don’t know what I would do without you. I know I don’t get a say in what you choose to do for the rest of your life, but I’m terrified of losing you.

Each day that goes by, every headline that I read, makes me more nervous for you to start this journey. By next August, you will be joining the local police academy, which I know you will kick butt at. You are one of the toughest girls I know, with your Jiu-Jitsu training, your will power, and the fact that you can out-shoot most guys at the range, which I’m slightly jealous of.

I respect you. There is only one year of age difference between the two of us. At 20 years old, you have accomplished more than most 45-year-olds have. You are an outstanding individual.

I look up to you. Your level of respect for law enforcement and other emergency personnel truly is inspiring. Selflessly, you always put others before yourself, which perfectly lines you up for this occupation. In a conversation that we had earlier this week, you told me,

“My parents keep asking me if I want to do this, every time that an officer is killed. But more than anything, I would already love to be a cop, so I could be doing something to help.”

This surprised me. If I were you, seeing how this world is turning into anti-cop, I would want to run and hide, and not put on the uniform that instantly made me the target. But the compassion that you have for others is unmatched. You want to eventually put on that uniform, wear it proudly, and protect the citizens of your community. No matter what the cost. That is courage and bravery in its truest form.

All in all, regardless of all my fears that may or may not happen as you begin your work as a law enforcement officer, I love you as a person. I will always be by your side, here to watch you grow and succeed in wherever life takes you. I proudly back the badge and I will always have your six.

My best friend will one day become a cop…and I couldn’t be more proud.

Stay safe,

Your Friend