My dear sweet friend Jen,

I do not remember the details of how we met,  however I know we met in college.  In a small college which only yields a handful of theology majors each year we were bound to meet.  I imagine we met in class and when deciding where I wanted to sit I decided to sit next to the girl with the curly brownish-blonde hair and the kind face.  From there the rest was history and we became friends very quickly.  You became like a sister to me.  When I graduated college we still kept in touch and would occasionally meet for our Panera dates. We bonded over books and boys.  Those were great but I missed seeing you on a regular basis, that’s why I was overjoyed when you got the job for the Diocese as it meant that we would see each other every day. Working with you was a blast.  I would stop by your office each day and we would talk about every little thing that came to our minds.  We joined the events committee together and were voted to be the chair and co-chair.  We complimented each other in leadership. This past year you left your job at the Diocese for a new adventure.  But our friendship has remained steady and strong.

I don’t know if you’re familiar with the Tik Tok Who’s Your Color Person trend that’s going around where people are classifying different colors to correlate with different characteristics.  But you my dear are my blue.  “A blue person is known for the comfort and peace that they bring. They are a big part of [your] support system and will never leave you (Krol).”  When I was thinking of who would be part of my support system as I started trauma therapy your name immediately came to mind.  When I told you about my mental health challenges you were surprised but you were also understanding and so gentle and kind to me.  You made me feel seen, heard, and supported and I really appreciate that.  Your calm and gentle nature helps me to regulate my dysregulated nervous system.  I trust you and I feel I can be authentically myself around you.  I can be vulnerable with you and am sure it will be met with kindness and love. You inspire me every day even if we are apart and even if you do not know it.

It has been a pleasure to watch you grow into the woman you are becoming. Your faith is unwavering and always on display which is so beautiful to see. I have watched you pursue your dreams in countless ways,  and in the past year or so I have watched you fall in love with the love of your life.  I am so excited for all that lies ahead for you.  I can’t wait to watch you marry the love of your life this summer.  I know I will be beaming with pride and with love for you that day.  And I know that one day you will stand beside me as my bridesmaid and do the same for me. 

Thank you for being my friend.  I love you beyond what words can express. 

Your friend till the end,