It’s been awhile since we last saw each other. We hadn’t talked for a while either, but we reconnected a few months ago, and reconnecting with you was probably the best thing I could ever do. Although we are not together again, we have decided to be there for each other through every up and down, and one day, if it’s meant to be, you and I will be together again. There were a few boys before you, but if I were to combine all the feelings I had for them together, it would not add up to what I have felt for you.

Right now, you and I live on opposite sides of the country, and you are just starting your career as a Marine. I am so proud of you and all the things you have accomplished over the 5 years I have known you. I hope life is good to you while you are in search of finding who you are and what you are supposed to do in this world. I hope the happiness you’ve always deserved has finally found you.

When we first met, I didn’t mean to fall for you, but I am glad I did. Time spent with you was my favorite time spent. Walking through the towns we lived in, watching multiple movies in one night, constantly laughing with (and at) each other, trips to the mall and the Cheesecake Factory (although you hate it and only brought me there because you knew it was my favorite), late night car rides, and even graduating high school together....there’s so many memories I have made with you that I will never be able to forget. I’m sorry for how things ended, all the back and forth we have done, and all the fighting we have gotten into. However, I am so glad we are back in each other’s lives and I was able to follow you on your journey through bootcamp, and I can now support you as a Marine.

I believe that people cross one another’s paths for a reason. I truly believe these people are either a blessing or a lesson of some sort. They could serve a purpose for a short while or a life time. Despite the situation or circumstances with which these people have entered our lives, some can make a forever lasting impression on our hearts. There is one person who has definitely left a special mark in mine.

Throughout the years I have known you, you have taught me how to love and how to be loved. You showed me that despite all of my flaws, I deserve the world and I shouldn’t settle for less. You taught me more than words can ever express. I’m so thankful to have a person like you in my life. I know that no matter what our situation is, or where we are in this world, if I picked up the phone right now, you would answer and help me through whatever it was without hesitation and I’m also grateful for that.

No matter what happens with us in the future, know that I will always love you and you will always have a special place in my heart. In 60 years when my grandchildren ask me about my first love, I hope to point to you and tell them that it was their grandfather and we fell in love in high school. If not, I will tell them about the green eyed, brown haired, handsome guy who changed my life forever and helped me through some of the hardest times of my life. Hopefully, one day we’ll have our chance again, if not, thank you for being such an amazing person and giving me the assurance that you will always be there.

Love Always,

Erin.