Dear Best Friend,

I know I've sent you a lot of links to articles like this but now it's my turn. We met for the first time at the beginning of the school year in a class that neither of us enjoyed. I was going to request to be removed but you convinced me to stay and I'm so glad you did.

You have changed my life for the better in so many ways and I could never thank you enough. Our friendship really began when I started going back to church and saw you there. Now we go together every Sunday and sit with two amazing friends that get on our nerves but somehow we'll always love them.

You have brought so much happiness and laughter in my life. Our car rides will always be my favorite thing. I've never laughed so hard, cried so much, and sang my heart out more than when we're driving around. You're the first friend I've ever spent Easter with. The first friend to have me sleep over for more than one night. The first friend I had that could joke about the troubles of life just as much as me. I don't think I've ever had so many inside jokes with one person. I will always say them aloud or use one of the weird voices we talk in then laugh because no one else will understand it. I love that we can just give each other a certain look and know how we're feeling or what we're thinking. I love that we'll laugh until tears are streaming down our faces and cry when a certain song plays.

For as long as I live, I don't think I'll ever forget how much you hate PDA. Being touched or held just isn't your thing and that's okay. I'm just glad you don't mind hugs. When you're sad we always end up laughing because I mention how hard it is to comfort you since you don't like being touched. You've taught me that affection doesn't always mean comfort. Sometimes you just need someone to listen to everything you have to say without any input, judgement or ridicule. That's what best friends are for. I want you to know that I'll always be that person.

It's crazy to think that we only met this year because it feels longer than that. I've told you things that I've never told anyone else which is pretty big because I don't trust others very well. You've helped me get through this crazy senior year and I don't know where I'd be without you. I can't wait to help you through yours. Graduation is coming up really soon and I know you'll cry when it comes but that doesn't mean our friendship is over. It'll never be over. We still have church and will have our weekly/weekend hangouts with the guys. I'll still sleep over all the time and you can still come use my hot tub and basketball hoop. Life is going to get a little crazy but I know you're going to stick around till the end and you know I'm going to do the same.

I don't say this often enough but I am so grateful for to have you in my life. Thank you for always having my back, being a shoulder I can cry on and the one I can yell at as I rant. You drive me nuts because you are so beautiful and strong but I don't think you see it as clear as I do. You are an amazing person who deserves the world because you help others. Strong people need breaks sometimes too. Don't forget to put yourself and happiness first. You can do it. Thank you for being you and loving me unconditionally no matter how much I can annoy you.

Love you forever