Since sophomore year of high school, I’ve been lucky enough to have a solid group of best friends who have changed my life in the best of ways. This past junior year of high school we were the closest we’ve ever been and I’m grateful to say that not being able to see each other every day during the summer hasn’t stopped us at all. Here’s to our friendship:

I’d like to say thank you- for a lot of things. Thank you for loving me, for accepting me, for caring for me, for keeping me sane, and for anything & everything else you’ve ever done for me. I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for finding you guys and for having the privilege to be part of such a special group of friends. I am thankful I have a friend group that is less concerned about parties, drinking and other things that a lot of high school kids are worried about at this point in their lives, and more concerned about being the best people/friends we can be for each other. It is so important to me to have friends who strive to do well in school, become better people, and who put their family and friends before anything else. I am thankful that we don’t argue with each other. Unfortunately, high school is the prime time for petty drama, especially with girls, yet my friends and I have never been sucked into that type of friendship. We are all so comfortable with each other that none of us ever have to worry about holding back what we’re thinking or feeling in fear of anyone getting mad about it. I must have one of the most understanding groups of people as my best friends, and I couldn’t be more appreciative. Finally, thank you for letting our love for each other be known. It is so important to have friends who remind you of their love and appreciation for you. I can’t think of a day that has gone by that someone in my friend group hasn’t told us all that they love us. It’s a beautiful thing to randomly be told that you’re loved and instantly lifts my spirits. It always seems to come at the perfect time when I need a little bit of a boost in my mood. Thank you for the laughs, for the tears, for the laughs until tears, and every moment in between. Thank you for being my people.

It feels like I’ve known you guys for a lifetime, although it’s only been a few years. I wonder what I did to deserve such amazing people in my life- I don’t know, but I’m glad it happened. I will forever cherish the memories we’ve made this far, and I cannot wait to make so many more. You guys are by far the most positive thing to come out of high school; in the midst of the massive amount of chaos, you all keep me sane.

11:11 until the end of time itself.