Everyone has that one person in their family. That person who they're closer to than anyone. That person is literally their person. For most people, it's their sibling or parent. For me, it's my grandfather. It's always been him. We've been best friends and inseparable since I was a baby. From our little jokes to our conversations that would get us in trouble if anyone ever heard them. He's the only one who has ever really understood me and always had my back, even when I was wrong (which is often). We just have a relationship that nobody but us really understood. From him whispering sarcastic remarks under his breath when nobody but me was listening, making us both laugh uncontrollably and getting weird looks from the rest of our family that made us laugh even harder. To our long walks to the store together to get him scratch tickets. Spending time with him is never boring.

The thing about him is, not only is he my grandfather, but he's my best friend. He's the one who taught me how to read, and gave me my love of reading. He taught me everything and made me the person I am today. He's been through so much in his life and still manages to smile and be the kindest person ever. He taught me not to be angry at the world and to always smile no matter what the situation. To always look on the bright side, to always laugh and find something to laugh about.

The conversations that he and I have always make me laugh. From his comments about people to his amusing thoughts on life, to some comments that don't make sense at all but they make me laugh. I cherish every single moment he and I spend together. Even if it's just sitting around watching Watters' World and him watching me stress out over how little people know about history (as a history major I am actually personally offended by this.)

I just wanted to thank you. Thank you for always loving me and supporting me. Thank you for always having my back and understanding me. Thank you for just being you. I love you, old man. He and I have been best friends since day one. He's always been my go-to person and my favorite person in the world. He was the main male figure in my life, the first male to love me and teach me how to love and how I should be treated. Even though he lives in Florida now, he is still my best friend and when I visit him it is like nothing changed. So this one is for him. Thank you to the most amazing grandfather and man I have ever met. I love you more than words can say and you will continue to be my person.