From: Annelisa, 40s, East Sussex, UK
To: Julia, 40s, East Sussex, UK

My friend, Julia

You’ve been there with me nearly my whole life.

We made camps together; discovered clothes, make-up, and boys together; explored teenage life.
Parting for the years we studied, we kept in touch, even when other friendships were discarded along the path. Our bonds grew stronger each time we met – growing closer, not away.

In our similarities and differences, we discovered our fellowship was chosen. Maybe it has been fate’s hand, because attachments this close don’t come along so often.

I can sit in silence with you, or talk twenty to the dozen.

I can see you every day, or not for a year, and it’s like we only just parted, our conversation continuing as though there were no break.

Even when apart, our lives have meandered distant, but parallel, events echoing across the miles.

You hear me when I need to talk, and talk when I need to listen.

We have laughed, danced and eaten together, and each time there is a bond that needs no words, yet is usually filled with them.

You ‘get’ me.

You understand my wry humour, and my constant teasing, and don’t take offence when I am blunt. And as I am to you, you are to me.

You are kind, thoughtful, adventurous, caring and creative. You are a great and wonderful mother; a close friend with your husband; loving and considerate to your sisters and parents.

You are like the ‘other half’ of me. You are also the ‘other half’ of Steve. That makes you the one that is whole.

Julia, I pray for you to live a very long, long time. Who knows, with fate’s strange twists, you may outlive me yet (but… if I go first, I’ll be back to haunt you! )

Just know, my friend, the distance of death will make no difference to the way I feel.

You have always been, and will always be, my very best friend!

Thank you for being there.

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