Growing up I always had great friends. It was in high school that I met a special select group of friends, which we called the Quails. We all lived on the same street, and always hung out on every chance we had. Over time, we all collectively became the best of friends. I have always been thankful for them, but now that it is years later, I can now articulate just how appreciative I am to have them still in my life.

High school was a funny place. I was insecure, with many hopes and dreams. I was immature at the start and very gullible. I went to school, met up with my close friends, went to classes, and carpooled home with my close friends. I would always do my homework and study for upcoming tests, but I was on social media a lot too. Not for productivity or creativity, but for talking to friends about school that day, or just seeing what my friends were up to.

I definitely made a ton of mistakes in high school too. Mistakes such as taking advantage of people, not being as considerate as I’d like to be, and not knowing how to love myself. I was lost when I didn’t even know it.

Through it all, my friends still remained. They hit rough patches in their lives too. I think that is something that made us grow even closer. We had so many ups and downs together, became vulnerable to one another, and were able to just be ourselves.

After high school we all went our separate ways. With work, school, and moving away, it was hard to keep in touch. We all had our own responsibilities, made new friends, found passions and were kept busy. I was afraid that growing and living life without them would make our friendship grow weaker. Thankfully, I was wrong.

During spring break, the Quails came back together. I was nervous at first because it had been years since I have been with all of them. It was incredible to experience how comfortable I was right when I saw their faces. My heart felt warm and a smile couldn’t leave my face.

I am incredibly lucky to have such good friends in my life. They taught me that I could be myself and love myself. They make me feel loved and reassure that I can love. They are hilarious, kind, deep, and always there for me. They taught me how to be a good friend and a good person.

I only wish that everyone has, at least, one friend like the Quails. Not only are they my friends, but also I consider them my family. I grew up with them, and I know that we will continue growing together.