When I look back at my diary entries, it is incredible to see how the girl who wrote just a year ago is so different from the girl writing today. I have focused on being consistent in my foundation of values and principles in all realms of my life – from how I deal with confrontation or negative situations, to friendships, business, etc. While I have faltered at times to some extent or another, I am proud as I think I’ve done a good job on staying true to the things that define me – being loyal, honest, loving, considerate and positive.

I’ve realized that the world around us will change – the dynamics of our friendships, our careers, the place we call home…but what is important is that your core stays the same. With that strong foundation, you will be resilient in times of turbulence and present in times of joy and laughter.

Tomorrow is another day of change, as my best friend whom I’ve known since I was a little girl is moving to the other side of the country. I’ve learned that in life you will encounter acquaintances, friends, good friends, best friends and blood. As changes occur, many times, the dynamics of the relationship change as that’s just the reality of friendships.

Well, linda is not just a best friend, but she is like blood to me. She understands absolutely everything about me, and can even read what I’m thinking by the way I sigh or smirk. We’ve watched each other grow up and have a bond that is very rare – our connection remains the same even if we haven’t seen each other for ages or speak only on cyberspace. We both know in our hearts that no matter what city we are living in, or how many kids we have, the dynamic of our friendship will never grow apart.

I’ll be 25 next month, and I am experiencing that phase in your life when friends and siblings start building their lives and going their own ways. They move away, fall in love, start their families…and it is beautiful and inspiring to witness and be a part of.

At the same time, and on a more selfish but human note, sometimes you feel a sudden sense of lonliness as the people you used to see so often go on a different path…where you are no longer physically there in presence. I admit, I feel the need to be very independant and accepting of the idea of being completely by myself so that I don’t feel scared of the whirlwind of changes that are happening.

Linda, I know you’re only a plane ride away…but I will miss you so very much.

Ngap ngap.

my lovely linda burgers