As we go through life, we meet people in unexpected ways. You might wake up one morning and meet the love of your life or you might wake up and meet your future maid of honor. For me, I feel like the past year has been the most defining in regards to the relationships I have formed. In the past, I would have never predicted the friendships I have now, but I wouldn't change it for the world.
I appreciate all that my unexpected friendships have given me over the years. They have helped me grow into the person I am today. A better person, with more confidence, aspirations, and empathy. I live for the late night talks and spontaneous trips. In the past, I've had friendships that seemed to be a one-way streak. If two people aren't putting in the effort, a relationship fails. But with the unexpected friendships that I have formed over the past year, it feels effortless. Previously, I would not have counted on my past friends. Now, I find comfort in knowing that I will always have a shoulder to lean on if needed.
Friendship means more than just having someone to hang out with or share moments with. It's about trust and being able to grow as a person and express yourself in the best way possible. I've learned that a friendship that brings negativity to into your life is not a friendship worth keeping. My unexpected friendships have helped me push the negative friendships out and have given me so many more happy moments. The time I have shared with my friends are the moments I am so grateful for. It's crazy to look back on friendships in the past and realize how much I took for granted.
It's hard to find true friends nowadays. It's the times when you're not looking that you find the best people. A random roommate, a dorm neighbor, a co-worker who has a completely different background, are now the people that I would ask to be my bridesmaids. It's even scary to think what will happen to these friendships as we grow even more. What will happen if we live in different states or move away for graduate school? Regardless, I know even if we didn't speak for weeks, I could just pick up the phone and it would be like we just spoke yesterday.
We go through a lot in our lives and when we have struggles and moments of confusion it is nice to know that there is always someone there to help you. I don't go a day in my life without thinking how grateful I am for my friends. They are seriously the family I have chosen. No matter what happens, good or bad, they are the people I would choose to stand by my side. Whether it's a trip to the grocery store or a cross-country road trip, if it's with them, I know it's going to be a great time.
So, if you are one of my unexpected friends, I want to say thank you. Thank you for letting me be me. Thank you for allowing me to share my life with you and letting me into yours. You are so appreciated and no matter what happens over the years and regardless where life takes us, know that you have helped me have one of the best years of my life and you have helped me grow. I am always here for you and love you all endlessly.
