Dear best friend,

Starting the first day we met, we have been constantly creating memories, whether they're amusing, sad, loving or annoying. You have shown me true, genuine happiness; you've given me stories I'll forever remember. I continuously catch myself telling our stories to people and realizing we're the only ones who would find it interesting.

Saying you mean the world to me would be an understatement. You keep me laughing even when I have tears streaming down my face. You calm me down when I'm stressed to no end. You are always willing to talk about any problems I'm going through and you're always willing to hear me rant. Ever since we met, we have talked every day, even on the days we're angry at each other. It has shown me how much you care, and I'll always be forever grateful for how much you care.

Through all of my burned friendships, you've been here for me. Through all my arguments with beloved family members, you've been here for me. Through all the days I've failed a math quiz, you've been here for me. Through all my anxious days, you've been here for me. Through my panic attacks, you've been here for me. It is needless to say that you're here for me throughout everything I go through. I know you'll always try your hardest to help. And I thank you tremendously for that.

You have taught me how to put my happiness first. You've taught me how to not let people walk over me. You've taught me that not everyone has as kind of a heart as I do. You've helped me gradually love all of my imperfections. You've helped me realize that if I do one bad thing, it doesn't mean I'm a bad person. You've helped me realize one mistake isn't the end of the world. You've helped me realize I need to stand up for myself more often than not. You've helped me realize second chances can be worth it. You have helped me realize my worth. And the most important of all, you have helped me find myself.

I know I can be extremely selfish at times; I can be pessimistic, close-minded and quick to judge. But you never give up on me. You don't focus on the past or our past. You continue looking forward and focusing on the future. You always look at the bright side of things, which I greatly admire. You put happiness first. You inspire me every day. You make me want to be the best version of myself I can be.

So thank you. Thank you for constantly teaching me new lessons. Thank you for putting up with my obnoxious laugh. Thank you for all the silly jokes you tell -- I'll never get sick of those. Thank you for not getting annoyed with my complaints. Thank you for always fulfilling my chicken nugget cravings. Thank you for helping me experience and try new things. Thank you for encouraging me. Thank you for always being proud of me. Thank you for reassuring me whenever I need it. Thank you for allowing me to be my complete self around you. Thank you for never judging me about things I cannot help. Thank you for being so understanding. Thank you for being someone I can trust and for putting your trust in me. Thank you for being the most wonderful best friend I could ever ask for. Thank you for everything.

You will always hold a place in my heart, no matter where our paths in life take us. I love you with every fiber in me.