December 2024: Letter to my friends...
To you,
It’s wild to think about how far we’ve come. When I first reached out to you, I was in such a tough and confused place, and honestly, I just needed someone to talk to who wouldn’t judge me. I didn’t know what to expect, but the way you spoke to me with so much wisdom completely disarmed me. You didn’t just listen; you saw me. And somehow, in the middle of my mess, you found a way to make me feel safe. That’s where it all started. Over time, what began as a timid conversation turned into something so much bigger than I never would have imagined. You have become like a big sister to me, and these days I ask myself, “What would X say?” whenever I want to take some random decisions. I enjoy talking to you so much that you have become more than just someone I could open up to. It’s funny how life works because we’ve never even really met, yet it feels like we’ve known each other forever. We’ve shared so many laughs, deep talks, random conversations, and even boy gists. I’m beyond grateful for the bond we share. Thank you for being so full of love. Thank you for the gift of access; I do not take it for granted.
To you,
You are the steady calm that I didn’t know I needed. You’ve always been the one who can see through my words and know exactly what I mean, even when I’m stumbling to say it. Your quiet strength and unshakable loyalty are like a warm embrace for me, one that I carry with me wherever I go. I think back to that moment we met, and we probably didn’t know it then, but that day was the start of the best friendship I have ever had. For one, it’s the way you listen and how you somehow know when I need confort or just silence; you’ve always understood me in ways few others have. You’re the kind of friend who shows up, not just with your presence but with your heart. Your presence is a gift, and I know that with you, no matter how complicated life gets, I’m never walking alone. You make life better simply by being in it. And I hope you know how deeply I appreciate you, not just for what you do but for who you are.
To you,
It’s funny how something as simple as a group chat brought us together. Who would’ve thought that one random interaction could lead to such a beautiful sisterhood? You have this incredible gift with words. You always seem to know exactly what to say to comfort me, lift me up, or just make me feel like I’m not alone. Whenever I am going through one of those days, you’re always there with the perfect words to remind me that I’m loved. And let’s not forget our endless talks about boys and our mutual “boy issues.” I think that was one of the things that we first connected over. I love how together we can turn even the most painful situations into something we can laugh about. You’re not just someone I turn to; you’re someone I lean on. Your care and your thoughtful kindness mean more to me than I could ever put into words (which is funny because you’re always the best with words). I’m so lucky to have you. Here’s to more late-night chats, more venting sessions, and more proof that some friendships are simply meant to be.
To you,
You know, I’ve probably come to you more times than I can count when I needed a help, and every time, you’ve been there, without hesitation, always ready to lend a hand. But what I value even more than that is the way you’re there for me in so many other ways. I enjoy talking to you so much. I never knew I could consistently hold conversations with someone every day for two whole years, but look at us. Your thoughtfulness is out of this world, mehn. You’re a top-tier babe. You’ve been there for me in more ways than I can say, and I just want you to know how much that means to me. You’re truly one of the best parts of my life.
To you,
If our WhatsApp chats ever leaked, we’d be in serious trouble. Let’s just say they’re a vault of orisirisi gossips that the world must never see. 😂 You’re my gist partner, my go-to for the laughs, the tea, and those “come and hear something” moments. Thank you for being the friend who always keeps it real, for being someone I can trust, laugh with, and share the most random things with. You’re one of a kind, and I’m so lucky to have you in my life.
To you,
You’re like a mother, a sister, and a friend all wrapped into one, and somehow, you know exactly which role to play at the perfect moment. I’ve always admired how you listen to me so attentively. It still feels a little weird calling you by your first name, especially because of the age difference, and I am a Yoruba girl, lol, but that’s just one of the many ways you make our bond feel unique. You’ve created this safe space where I can share anything without hesitation. And the best part? You’re such a lovergirl at heart, always rooting for love like a true hopeless romantic. Thank you for being my confidante and my biggest cheerleader. You’re truly one of a kind, and I’m so lucky to have you in my life.
To all of you,
This is for every one of you who has poured into my life in ways big and small, without even knowing it. You’re the ones I call, text, or think about when I need a good laugh, a word of advice, or just someone to share my random musings with. You’re my cheerleaders, my sounding boards, and my safe havens. Some of you are my gist partners, always down for a laugh or a quick “come and hear what just happened.” Some of you are my problem solvers, the ones I run to when life is lifing. And some of you, without even trying, have just been there. I am grateful for the way you show up for me and let me show up for you. I love you.
With all my thanks,
Esther.
