I’ve never been much of one to go out, party… Or constantly have things planned. I very much enjoy doing things at home, or hiking… Alone. I lose track of time frequently when it comes to staying in touch with those I consider friends… And the ones I still have after all these years seem to get it. It might be months, or years between conversations, lunches or coffee. But, we pick up right where we left off the last time we saw each other and the absent time fades into the background like it was never there to begin with. I’ve had lonely nights when I forget there is more people than I seem to remember that I can call or reach out to, but even those are rare. I’ve become content with the few-and-far-between close friends I have.
Then recently, things began happening to solidify the way my thinking has been changing over the last few years. Time is so precious, and so taken for granted. This is for you, my precious few… You who make me laugh so hard I pee myself, who make me forget pain… Who put a smile on my face from the moment my eyes open and I remember something you did or said.. You ridiculous group of introvert/extroverts that have allowed me unforgettable moments and memories with you… You are so important to me.
To you.. My fighter..you are with me always… You said you’ve never give up, and things have not been easy, but you not giving up, makes me not give up and keep fighting, especially on the days I don’t want to anymore. I love you
To you.. My confidant … you checking on me, reading my thoughts before they become words (not sure how you do that), making me laugh… Every single day.. So hard I’m getting a two-pack.. I love your willingness to be a little inappropriate to generate smiles around you. I listen to your stories and realize what a strong person you are. I love that I can talk to you about anything, you are wise, and an incredible encourager. You, are one of my heroes… And a badass mf.
To you … my cheerleader… you are and always have been my cheerleader, even when I didn’t deserve it. You telling me now that I’m not alone, means the world to me. That’s all I need. I love you
To you… my protector… I know you don’t show emotions well, and that this chapter in your life scares you. You have always been my biggest influence and such an amazing person… This part will be no different. I have zero doubt in my mind that you will find your place again, and that when I need you, you will still answer every time I call and tell me you’re never too busy for me. I love you
To you … My reality… you put on a tough front.. But I’ve gotten to see the truly deep, caring person you are. I treasure the moments we have and will have.. And I know how much they are worth. The honesty you provide and knowledge that you have my back means more to me than you know. You are one of a kind, and I’m blessed to have you in my life and consider every interaction with you a gift.
To those who I never return the call… You all have been around long enough that I know we are stuck with each other for life. You patiently put up with the absence of phone calls when I tell you “I’ll call you right back”, and the life gets in the way and I don’t… For weeks sometimes. Know that you are never far from my thoughts. The memories and stories that you and I have created are ones that never cease to put a smile on my face. Thank you for the time. You are my treasures. I love you
To you… My story makers.. You all inspire me.. To never give up and continue laughing. To make those memories. To show the concern, care and love… So no one feels alone. To you this weekend… Thank you for your time. It allowed me to realize that there is a reason we have been brought together and why I consider you all second family. I adore you all… Every introverted, loud-mouth, crazy person. As a whole.. I think we’re pretty awesome together. Thanks for being uniquely awesome and allowing me to be a part of it.