By Jazmine Basa
With a complex childhood shattered in pieces and my self-esteem in shreds, I felt isolated from the world. That was until I met my best friend, who helped me put myself back together.
We’ve all had friends, friends of different shapes, sizes, races, backgrounds, and personalities. Yet, what is it that differentiates a friend from a best friend?
I questioned myself multiple times if “best” friends were real. I had a decent amount of friends, but I still felt I had to put up a persona for them. Hence, I grew up rather closed off—until I got an answer to my questions.
His name was Joey Garcia, and he was the least expected candidate for the role of “best friend.” I admit he always seemed insensitive. I suppose it was just me judging a book by its cover. For a long time, I was arguing with myself; should I really show my true colors?
He became my best friend at freshman year of high school--around 2016 to be precise. We bonded over silly jokes and video games. Ever since then, I’ve been laughing, crying, and sometimes aggravated with him.
Here’s the thing with best friends: they don’t have to be the best person. They don’t have to give perfect advice or be capable of being happy all the time. They just have to bring out the best in you.
Recently, Joey’s birthday (December 5th) passed. With that, I say, happy (late) birthday. With you, I feel safe in a world full of strangers. Thanks for being there for me even at my worst and helping me break out of my persona.
With a complex childhood shattered in pieces and my self-esteem in shreds, I felt isolated from the world. That was until I met my best friend, who helped me put myself back together.
We’ve all had friends, friends of different shapes, sizes, races, backgrounds, and personalities. Yet, what is it that differentiates a friend from a best friend?
I questioned myself multiple times if “best” friends were real. I had a decent amount of friends, but I still felt I had to put up a persona for them. Hence, I grew up rather closed off—until I got an answer to my questions.
His name was Joey Garcia, and he was the least expected candidate for the role of “best friend.” I admit he always seemed insensitive. I suppose it was just me judging a book by its cover. For a long time, I was arguing with myself; should I really show my true colors?
He became my best friend at freshman year of high school--around 2016 to be precise. We bonded over silly jokes and video games. Ever since then, I’ve been laughing, crying, and sometimes aggravated with him.
Here’s the thing with best friends: they don’t have to be the best person. They don’t have to give perfect advice or be capable of being happy all the time. They just have to bring out the best in you.
Recently, Joey’s birthday (December 5th) passed. With that, I say, happy (late) birthday. With you, I feel safe in a world full of strangers. Thanks for being there for me even at my worst and helping me break out of my persona.