We had been friends for three years, before my dear best friend decided to tell me that he was in fact - gay. He was 16, I was 15. We were driving around town, listening to the new Lady Gaga album. I remember him being so nervous to tell me he couldn't even look at me. He feared that because of his sexuality, I would view him differently. But, little did he know... from that day on I only had more respect for him.

Here is a list of 8 life lessons I have learned from having a wonderful, homosexual man in my life...

1. BE YOURSELF.

For years my friend felt that he had to hide who he was to please others. But, the day he decided enough was enough and started to be the person he was destined to be was such a beautiful thing. He showed me that once you accept your true self, things will start to get a little easier.

2. It's okay to be fake, if you're honest about being fake.

He has showed me that sometimes it's easier to fake a smile then to let your true emotions show and slap someone across their stupid face.

3. Stand up for what you believe in.

Not everyone is going to have the same views you do, and they might try to challenge your beliefs. But, he's taught me that I have to trust in my heart what I think is right, and stick to my gut.

4. Gay culture.

Wow, if it wasn't for my best friend I would know nothing about Bears, Otters, and Twinks. I would have never pronounced "yes," like "yaaaaaas." Never would I ever have been able to know the lyrics to so many Whitney Houston songs. Most importantly, I learned to love and respect Rupaul.

5. People are much more than their stereotype.

NOT ALL GAY GUYS ARE FLAMBOYANT, THEY DON'T ALL LOVE SHOPPING. This is important to remember. Just like all human beings, no two gays are the same. Everyone is different and unique, and should be treated with the same respect. Never assume anything.

6. Tea and shade are fundamental.

Now, we're not talking an Oprah cinnamon chai tea from Starbucks and sitting underneath a big tree on a sunny day... we're talking gossip. Sometimes it's okay and necessary! For example, it can help get stories straight! (no pun intended)

7. Always dress to impress.

If you look good, you feel good. It's bad to judge people based on their appearance, but it's inevitable to happen... so might as well give them something to talk about - you never know who you're going to run into. Plus, whenever we're together we you know we have to take a picture to show everyone how much fun we're having. #Selfies

8. Live in the moment.

Life is too short to not have fun. Be spontaneous, adventurous, and care free. My best friend and I have taken a bus to New York city, a road trip to Chicago for a Nicki Minaj concert, and countless late night drives around town eating froyo and lip-syncing.

To say the least, I am a better person because of you Kevin. You are so much more than just my "gay best friend."

You have been my biggest fan, greatest inspiration, and favorite critic. You're always there to laugh at me AND with me, hold me when I cry, and tell me when it's time toughen up. I love your sass, your class and your ass...ets. Thank you for being you, and being the greatest man I know.

Cheers to you, to us, and the future...

I love you forever and always.