To My Hometown Best Friend,
“Whenever, wherever, you always pull me back.”
We’ve known each other since we could barely say full sentences and we’ve been friends ever since. I remember back in middle school when New Year's Eve consisted of snacks and movies, except for that one year when you got your wisdom teeth removed and you looked like a chipmunk all weekend. Or in middle school when we tried to do the talent show and made up a dance. It was a complete fail. We would take posed pictures in my kitchen (props and all) and post them on every social media site we were allowed to have because they were SO cute. Throughout all the cheer practices, pool parties, Halloween parties, middle school dances, and sleepovers, you held my hand and I held yours. We showed each other what true friendship was and, for that, I could never be more thankful.
We hit high school and nothing changed. We attended games together, skied together, cheered at the football games together, and shared gossip with each other. You were always there to catch my tears and give me an extra laugh. I can never thank you enough for everything that you did for me, but thank you. Thank you for always including me. Thank you for telling me that that guy didn’t deserve me, and then understanding when I didn’t listen. Thank you for confiding in me even though you knew my life was just as messy as yours. You stayed with me through thick and thin, and for that, I am forever thankful.
As our senior year rolled around, we filled out college applications and we both knew what was coming. I was both happy and sad when I found out we would be going to schools 148 miles away from each other. I was sad because we would be so far away from each other, but happy because you would be following your dreams. Despite the distance, things haven’t changed. If anything, we have only gotten closer.
On top of the stress of college, you have traveled to see me, driven the distance just so you wouldn’t miss my birthday, got matching tattoos with me, and talk to me every day regardless of what is going on. Hanging out with you when we come home on break makes my break that much better. I want you to know that without your friendship I don’t know where I would be. You have such a kind heart and I hope you never lose that. Your selflessness inspires me to be a better person and I know that I can always count on you when I need you. While everything around us was changing, you never did. You’re my best friend, my rock, you’re crazy, and you’ll always be at the top of my list.
Thank you for always pulling me back.
