Dear Friend,

You made it. Up to to this point in your life, you may not have known that college was even an option for you. You may have thought you weren’t smart enough. However, whatever you are doing right now, stop and breathe. You made it this far. Today, you are starting the next chapter in your life and that is something to be so proud of. You are smart enough, you are good enough, and you deserve this. You deserve education and new beginnings and that is what you are getting. Despite the people you have lost, injuries you have overcome, and an unsteady relationship with God, you remain strong, smart, and beautiful.

Thank you for being my rock for the past few years. Thank you for getting into all sorts of trouble with me. Thank you for not letting me go through my family problems alone. Thank you for letting me honest with you all the time. I guess, overall, thank you for never turning your back on me. Thank you for letting me be your best friend. I know you won’t stop being my rock through college, no matter how far apart we end up. I am a different person because of your patience and friendship. I am so extremely happy that you’re finally following your dreams. I know the road has been tough but I know you’re gonna do amazing things.

I think there will always be a part of me that is scared that you going to go to college means forgetting about me and our friendship or finding someone that you click with better than we ever have. Despite my fears, I know that we have made it this far in our friendship, and every time we stopped talking, we went right back to where we belong when we did talk again. As much as I want you to have the best time at college and do everything you want to, part of me hopes you’re constantly on your phone talking to me.

Whatever you do, and wherever your life and college takes you, never forget that you have a home with my family, always. Always know that I have never been more proud of you, and I will miss you more than anything. Meet people; accomplish things; have a hell of a time. Don’t change for anyone but yourself, and don’t let anyone think of you as less than you are. But come back. I'd die without you.

I love you forever and ever, miles and miles away.

Love,