PERSONAL GROWTH

Your Best Friend- How To Appreciate Her

Saying Thank You Every Day

“Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born.”

― Anais Nin, The Diary of Anaïs Nin, Vol. 1: 1931–1934

A beautiful friendship started in a classroom many years ago. It was August 1991, and I had just arrived in Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico, for my year abroad. I had studied Spanish for nearly two years but did not speak very much.

Before I knew it, a classmate who would become my best friend passed me a note in English.

She is someone who has the voice of an angel and the heart of an old soul. I appreciate her reaching out to me when I did not know anyone.

Because of her, I joined the school choir. We sang for mass at school and sometimes at other churches around town. I had so much fun even though I really cannot carry a tune. Everyone was so kind to me, especially Lily.

Me, Lily and Marcela, and many other friends got to know each other that year. Those friendships grew and blossomed.

Sometimes friendships stand the test of time.

Out of all of the friends I made in Mexico, Lily has remained in touch first by writing letters and cards, then emails, and now Whatsapp messages.

No matter what happens, we are there to support each other.

We leaned on each other through hard times, through time and distance, and our own difficulties. We forgive each other for missteps and congratulate each other on our triumphs.

We are both very empathic and emotional spirits.

Our love of decluttering and minimalism has sparked lots of great conversations across the miles. We often talk about what we are giving away and how it feels to live with less.

Every day I am thankful for my best friend. We support each other unconditionally with pure hearts.

When someone cares enough to always love you through anything, she is your best friend.

Thank you, Lily, for showing me how to be a best friend from that first note to our latest message.