I don’t see you as much as I’d like to, but know that I wish I saw you more. Over the years of growing up there are a few things I’ve realized: the first thing being that you were and always will be my natural born best friend, and the second being that I’ll love you no matter how far or close in distance we may be.

From the day we were born, there was an instant connection between the two of us. Whether we realized it or not, there was something more than love that we developed as we grew together. The love we have for each other, regardless of if we mention it as often as we should, surely will never fade away. From the moment we were building toy train tracks together, to the moment you helped me through the stresses of high school (and then college), you have proved to always be my best friend.

Brother, there is nothing I could give you to show you how much you mean to me. All those birthday or Christmas gifts we’ve exchanged over the years have no presence over how much I care about you. Every gift you’ve given me means nothing in the long run as long as I know you love me.

We’ve fought—and we’ve fought often. Though it’s all apart of growing up and becoming a better person, I could always count on us not being upset with each other at the end of the day. Our fights were brutal, we’ve both cried, we’ve both been hurt and upset; none of that matters.

If I could take back all the tension that we built during those moments, I would. I cannot say that the future won’t contain useless bickering, but even if it does, you’re still my forever best friend, whether you want to be or not (sorry!)

Thank you for being my brother, even though it was not your choice. Without you, I couldn’t imagine where I’d be. There’s a secret and silent language that we speak to each other. Your love and support is far different than the love from a parent—we can relate differently than any parent could understand.

So, brother, thank you for being that special shoulder that I could cry on throughout the years. I don’t tell you this as much as I should, but I love you. And I’m proud of everything you are doing with your life. As long as you are happy, I’m ecstatic. As long as you are smiling, I’m cheerful. As long as you are living a happy life, I am too.

Thank you for being my best friend.