I thank God every single day that you came into my life. You were my first “person.” I had had plenty of friendships before you, but you were different.

You came into my life when I thought I had amazing friends and that I didn’t need you, but it turns out I did. It was unexpected and not always easy. You lived almost an hour away from me (it’s three hours now) and that was going to be hard, especially with our crazy schedules. We were both on basketball teams at our respective high schools, did diamond dolls, and went to every football game. But you made it a point to make time for me. I hadn’t ever had friends like that. My past friendships were very toxic. Almost everything revolved around them. But you made time for me. When my other friendship ended and I was in a million pieces, you were there to pick up the pieces. You’ve always been there to pick up the pieces.

For a long time, I thought I needed at least a small group of friends, but you changed that. You made me realize that having one or two incredible best friends is plenty. You taught me what friendships were actually supposed to be like, and the first few months I pushed you away because I didn’t know any better. All I knew was everything revolving around the other person, and for that I’m sorry. I realize now you were just being a really good friend.

You stand with me in my crazy and love me for it. You know my struggles and everything I’ve been through, and you have been so good at sitting with me in that. You always tell me, “Sometimes I don’t know what to say, so I just listen.” What you don’t know is that’s the best gift you could have given me. Someone who sits with me in the pain and difficult times, but also someone who sits and celebrates the victories, no matter how big or small, with me. I hope you know I will always do the same.

Thank you for picking me. ME. Of all the people you could have become friends with at that camp, you chose me. You saw me for more than that shy girl who didn’t talk to many people. You saw me beyond the mask I was wearing. You’ve always seemed to be able to see beyond the mask.

I can’t wait for us to be in each other’s weddings and for our kids to meet.

You are one of the most incredible people I know, and I love you so much.

Always shoot for the stars and know I’ll be right here standing beside you while you chase your dreams.