To my childhood best friend,

You’ve been in my life for as long as I can remember. You were part of every precious memory of my childhood. Whether we were shopping at the mall, hanging out by the pool, or taking trips to the beach, we were always together, and never bored. You’ve been there for me through all my awkward stages, held my hand when things went wrong, and laughed at every joke I made -- and you still do.

You’re not really my friend. You’re more like family. I know the family jokes, where you hide the good food so your dad won’t eat it all, and I have been to so many family get togethers I know all of your family, including the extended cousins who come in just for Christmas. Even though, at some point of our lives, we weren’t in the same school, or even the same state, our friendship has never weakened. We can go weeks, even months, without seeing each other, and as soon as we are together again it’s like nothing has changed. We can sit in silence and just enjoy each other’s company. We can talk for hours without being interrupted by the outside world. We can fight like crazy and make up two seconds later.

Our friendship is not perfect. We have grown up together and, sometimes, we have disagreed. We may not have the same faith life, and don’t you dare bring up politics. No matter what arguments, challenges or troubles come our way, we always come out stronger than before. You open my eyes and right my wrongs, and you make me a better person. You’ve seen me cry uncontrollably and laugh so hard that I snort. Most importantly, you’ve seen it all and you still accept me for who I am.

Thank you for all the wonderful years of friendship. I have enjoyed every single one. From every awkward picture to midnight conversations about the rest of our lives, you’ve always been by my side. I am so lucky to call you my best friend.

No matter where life takes us, you will always remind me of my greatest moments as well as my most embarrassing ones.

Love always,

Your forever best friend.