April 21, 2025

By Eliza Monroe

Sometimes, I sit back and think about how much my friends mean to me. They’re the ones who’ve been there through every high and low, offering their laughter, their support, and sometimes even just their silent presence. And to be honest, sometimes I think I don’t tell them enough how much I love them. It’s not about the grand gestures or the loud declarations, though I’ve had moments where I wanted to shout it from the rooftops. It’s about those small, quiet moments that make me feel understood, seen, and accepted.

I don’t always know how to express it properly, or if I ever can. I’m often caught in my own thoughts, sometimes feeling like I don’t do enough to show how much I appreciate them. I hope, in some way, I’ve been able to give them at least a fraction of what they’ve given me. Because honestly, they bring so much joy to my life. Even if I’m just sitting with them in silence, basking in their energy, I feel like everything is a little bit better.

I know I’ve made mistakes along the way. There have been moments when I wasn’t the best friend I could be, when I didn’t listen the way I should have, or when I got caught up in my own world. I think we all go through that at times. We’re not perfect, none of us are. But that doesn’t mean I don’t love them, or that they don’t matter to me. Every one of them is so important, and I hope they know that. I don’t want them to feel like they’re ever alone, because I’m here, and I want to make sure they feel that, too.

And I just… I hope only the good things in life come their way. I want them to find peace and happiness and everything that they deserve. They’re so special to me, and I just wish I could express that more. I don’t want to take their love for granted, and I don’t ever want to let them think for a second that I’m not grateful for them.

To my friends, wherever they are: I love you. Even if I don’t always show it, even if I’m not perfect, you mean the world to me. I hope you know how much you’ve made my life brighter, how much your presence means. Thank you for being you, for all the laughter, the support, and the memories we’ve shared. You all deserve the best. Always.