An Open Letter to My Best Friends...
Dear Childhood...and Lifelong Best Friends,
We've known each other for like...forever. Or, at least it feels that way. We grew up together. Shared moments together that have, and I hope will continue to, solidify our friendship. From elementary school embarrassments to our first crushes and eventual kisses, we have been there for each other.
And, now that we are adults, have moved away from each, each one living in a different city, each one at a different point in our lives, we still remain. The best of friends. And for that I am so incredibly thankful.
I am thankful that we were there for each other when tragedy and loss struck. I am thankful we were there for each other when the first of our children was born. I am thankful that when one of us moved away for grad school--the first to leave the nest--we continued to vacation together, talk on the phone, and make time for each other. Most of all I am thankful that even now, after all this time, we are still there for each other.
One of us is getting married this weekend and I am so incredibly excited to stand by your side as you start the next journey of your life. This is a big moment in your story. Thank you for including me.
I received a message from one of you today that spoke about things from our pasts that we didn't know growing up. I wanted to tell you that the anger, confusion, and anxiety you felt at this information is ok. You are not alone. And never will be. This is what our friendship is. I am thankful that you felt comfortable enough and confident enough in me that you shared this information. I believe in you.
Why shouldn't I? We've done some crazy things together! From playing truth or dare in the backyard to road tripping together, we've had some amazing adventures. Whenever I am in doubt, these are the memories I turn to. And our journey is not over.
Over the years we have become more like family than friends. I guess that's not surprising since we've been at each other's family gatherings, spent more time with each other family's than with our own (it feels that way sometimes), and even have keys to each others houses...and their parents' houses. Don't worry, they really don't care if you just walk into the house without knocking.
As a writer, I recognize that the people in my life affect my work... my characters. We write what we know. And I sometimes write about you. You, who are inspiring. Hardworking. Kind. Beautiful (inside & out). And, altogether amazing. You, who are a great friend, loyal, and talented. So much of what I write is influenced by you.
And for that I am thankful.
Thankful that I have known someone like you. Thankful that I have had friendships in my life that have lasted a lifetime. Thankful that we will continue to grow old and gray together. Thankful that you are you and I am me and we are the best of friends together.
You are my childhood best friends. But our friendship means so much more than a childhood. Our friendship is for a lifetime.
