You,

Today is finally the day that you're making an appearance in my articles, and this one is completely dedicated to you. Honestly, I know that you probably saw this one coming and I cannot wait to run into you next week and have you talk to me about it, like usual. You love talking. Whether it be about some random scientific thing or simply the fact that hotdogs are curvy, you love it; and that was how we formed a friendship. I used to hate talking and expressing myself, but for some reason you spoke so calmly and simply towards me that it really assisted me in opening up. Which is where I stand now. I'm more myself than ever and I'd like to thank you for giving me that push and really helping me to become someone I want to be.

"Promise me you'll always remember: You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think."

You know, you've really taught me some useful things. Although a lot of people may assume you are a bit crazy (which I know is completely true), you give ideal advice. May it be as simple as how to drop fries rapidly and precisely or how to say no to something you don't want to do; you're advice will always stick to me. God's truth. First of all, that whole "you don't have to do anything you don't want to Tori, just say no," conversation we had will always loop in my head. You know that now I actually stand up for myself more. It's beautiful. As for the other stuff, I found myself the other day when I was driving up to school zoning out into something sad, but I was suddenly drawn into the conversation we had about 287. I started to focus on that only and it helped drown out the dark thoughts.

Which is another thing you're good at. You for some reason just know when people are off. Like the other day at work, you came right up to me and asked me if I was okay. I think I lied to you (can't really remember, that day's a blur), but then you started doing stupid shit and it lifted my heavy heart. You're an oddball, but I wouldn't want it any other way.

So, here's where it's about to get real. I cannot thank you enough. Thank you for sticking around while my world has been a hot mess. No matter what I say to you, do, or even wear, you still treat me like me and never make me feel less than myself. You're one of the few who has even done that for me and I'm so happy to still have you in my life. Therefore, you better not leave me when I leave for school. I'm going to need you to come visit and share a few nights at the reservation with me. I know you can't turn down a good place to hike, so keep in touch.