My best friend

Most of you know Michelle, her name is usually followed by the phrase: "my best friend since the 2nd grade". I always feel the need to qualify that, so whomever I'm talking to knows how important she is to me. As if that statement could somehow explain it all. There is no way to describe our bond, our shared memories, or the place she holds in my life. It is a bond that no matter distance or circumstances, will never be broken. Life has tried to break it, but failed.

So this week was my birthday. I got a very unexpected gift delivered to my door. First I read the card, which made me cry. This is very unusual - I'm the sentimental mushy one - she is not. Once I finished reading the poem, I opened the box, and again cried. Below is a picture of what I found. It is an eternity band (stones all around the ring) - with 29 stones in it. 1 for each year we've been best friends.

Here is the poem that was in my card. She collaborated with her step-dad Will to write it for me. I don't believe it could have been said any better!!

I could think of a thousand blessings,
That simply would not have been,
Had not that special person been there,
Whom I call, my sister, my friend.

I think back to that time in the 2nd grade,
And how my life was changed back then,
When God introduced me to an angel,
Whom I call, my sister, my friend.

And oh the times we've spent together,
In my memory they never will end,
Of endless summers I've spent with you,
Whom I call, my sister, my friend.

In my heart there is a special place,
That I visit again and again,
A place for that special someone,
Whom I call, my sister, my friend.

On your birthday, I send you this band,
To always be worn on your right hand,
With 29 stones, to reflect each year,
You have been with me, forever so dear.

You wear yours, and I will wear mine,
Forever and ever, till the end of time,
And I promise, that you will always be
My sister, my very best friend!