I can only hope that everyone has experienced the joy of having someone super close to their hearts—the best of best friends. Although I always knew my friend Maddie was extra special to me, the culmination of these nine points made me appreciate our friendship that much more.

1. Our communication is intentional.

Because we don’t get the privilege of seeing each other every day (or even every month), keeping in touch is a choice we make. You’re not just someone in my science lab that I have to text; I want to talk to you.

2. You’ve put up with me for long enough, so I know you’ll always stay by my side.

In spite of the late-night phone calls across different time zones, you still manage to pick up the phone each time. I’m still not sure how you put up with me, but you've been there for me since over-editing was sort of acceptable.

3. If we do happen to get too overwhelmed with homework/life to talk regularly, when we do, it’s like nothing has changed.

We will always be able to bring up stupid boys and how much we hate cafeteria food at our universities. After we get that out of the way, we can talk about the the things that matter.

4. We have a language all our own.

Regardless of how far we are from one another, our endless amounts of odd voices and inside jokes can cross state lines.

5. I’m pretty positive you know more about me than I do.

I’m not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing. Regardless, you could probably write my biography when I die. In fact, you’re a smart cookie so you probably should.

6. When we do get to see each other, a sense of normal overwhelms me.

We’re both in transitional periods of life, and it’s nice to know that the place you have in my heart will never change. You are my best friend. You always will be.

7. I have a new catchphrase every week.

We unintentionally exchange stupid combinations of words. As much as my roommate hates the phrase “I’m chillin," I can't stop saying it every 16 seconds.

8. I smile knowing that out of the abundant combinations of people who could be best friends, we chose each other.

When I’m down, I am reminded that a person like you chose to be friends with me. Contrary to belief, my mom did not have to pay you to be my friend back in middle school.

9. Distance means nothing in comparison to the love we share.

506 miles cannot keep us apart and it never will. Thank you for being the fabulous human that you are. I am the person I am because I have had the pleasure of knowing you.