It seems like just yesterday we were sitting in frigid classrooms, planning out where we were going to go eat whenever class let out. Just yesterday we were huddled together in the cafeteria, copying each other’s homework and checking out the cute underclassmen, wishing they could be just a LITTLE older. Just yesterday, we were texting each other at 2AM when the weight of the universe sat on our chests the heaviest, talking about life and the sadness we carried in our hearts. Just yesterday, we were graduating. Just yesterday, our friendship was easy and accessible. . . but today. . . not so much.

We don’t talk as much as we used to. We no longer turn immediately to each other for comfort and fellowship. We don’t have sleepovers, watch dumb movies, or hang out just to take naps and snuggle. I don’t have you here to tell you about all my college adventures, and you no longer tell me all about that boy that was slowly stealing your heart. He sees you more than I do now and I can’t lie and say I’m not jealous because I totally am. But I’m glad he’s there for you. I’m glad you can rely on him, and that he keeps you happy. That’s all I’ve ever wanted for you, after all.

Things are more complicated now. We work, we go to school. We sit dozens of miles away from each other polishing all of our memories of our ‘yesterday’, lest they turn foggy. Just because we are apart, doesn’t mean we are separate. The connection we made is unbreakable. I could still pick your order at our favorite places to eat. I still have all the stupid notes we’d pass in class to make each other laugh. I still listen to all the Chainsmokers, Pink Floyd, and Artic Monkeys we used to jam to. I still have my records and think of you fondly every time I listen to Fleetwood Mac.

I keep you alive around me. Within my college friend group, you’re known as “my friends back home”. They already know about all of our stupid adventures, and they can’t wait to meet you all. The awesome thing is, I’ve found another version of all of you in my friends now. They’re practically a reflection of you and I couldn’t be more blessed to be surrounded with such awesome, incredible people.

I’m so sorry that I suck at keeping in touch. I want you to know that I wouldn’t be the person I am now without the help of you all. Please never forget the memories we share and never forget that I remember them, too. You’re always on my mind and in my heart. I love you all so much.