It always happens. You grow up being friends with certain people. You go through elementary, middle, and high school together. You share all kinds of memories and inside jokes but then it’s time to enter adulthood. Some go to college, some travel, some stay home. No matter what though, one thing is certain— it gets harder and harder to spend time together.

But those friends that stick through thick and thin with you are the best ones.

For example, they may not know the people you’ve surrounded yourself with recently so if drama ever goes down, your long distance best friend can offer an outside perspective on the situation. It’s nice to have an outside mind weighing in on an issue.

Those memories I spoke about earlier can come in handy, too. Sometimes you could be feeling a little homesick and talking about the old days can help calm your mind. Who better than a long distance best friend to talk to about home?

Last, but certainly not least, having a long distance best friend that you’re close with can give you some peace of mind. You know you always have a friend that will be there for you.

My mom always told me I would be lucky to leave high school with one friend. I left with a best friend, and someone I could always count on. And it isn’t just about what she can do for me— I’ll be that same best friend for her, as well.