After 18 long and lonely years, I had decided to give up on my best friend search. If I had not yet met my platonic soulmate by now, I assured myself, then they just simply didn’t exist. It wasn’t until the first night of freshman year, as my roommate and I lay on our uncomfortable captains’ beds, singing and laughing, that I realized I was wrong. I had finally found my best friend. So, here is a thank you letter for my best friend, the Thelma to my Louise.
Thank you for helping me to believe in myself.
When we first met, I struggled with self-image issues. I constantly criticized my body and my choices; certain my negative self-image would never change. Despite this however, you refused to stop building my confidence, continually reminding me that small accomplishments deserve a celebration, mistakes are a necessary part of life, and that I, myself, am enough. Your unwavering support and encouragement helped me to find the self-esteem and self-love I never knew I had.
Thank you for always making sure I am safe.
No matter where or when, I know I can always count on you to have my back. Not only do you continually make sure I am safe and protected, but you always make sure that any other friends or romantic partners I have will do the same.
Thank you for showing me light during my darkest days.
Not only are you my best friend, but you’re my therapist too. You reassure me in the face of anxiety and laugh beside me in that of embarrassment. No matter the topic or the day, you are always willing and prepared to discuss life, love, and everything in between. And when I feel at my lowest, you’re always there beside me to help me back up. Thank you for always finding a way to make me smile, laugh, and remember that the bad times are only temporary.
Thank you for sharing everything with me.
Your food, secrets, clothes, memories, time, and even your limited-edition multivitamin gummies; best friend, you never fail to provide. Regardless of the situation, you are always ready, willing, and happy to do or provide whatever is needed to help, without any need for recognition.
Thank you for forcing me to step out of my comfort zone.
Before meeting you, my thoughts and anxiety plagued me constantly. I was afraid to be authentically myself. Your fearless and confident attitude helped me to realize the insignificance of other people’s opinions and remarks. I cannot wait for all the hilarious adventures, experiences, and lessons we have ahead of us.
Thank you for exposing me to all life has to offer.
Best friend, you teach me something new about the world every day. From words, to jokes, to personal anecdotes, and even mannerisms you’ve helped me see the world from a completely different perspective.
Thank you for just getting me.
Whether it’s the way our brains are wired, the childhood trauma we endured, our compatible star signs, or our uniquely weird sense of humor, we just get one each other. You know when and what to say to cheer me up or make me laugh, and for that I am so grateful. Even a simple gesture or a glance and suddenly and you can tell exactly what I’m thinking and feeling.
If you’re lucky enough to have a person in your life who completely understands and unconditionally loves you, remember to treasure them. Remind them every day how important they are to you and of all the ways in which their presence has positively impacted your life. Sing to them, serenade them, or buy them some frozen yogurt; but just make sure they know. So, thank you universe, for aligning the stars, and thank you, best friend, for always making me feel like one.