It’s officially February, and love is in the air. One of the greatest lessons I learned about love in my 20s is that the love shared within female friendships is unparalleled. It is shared life experiences, laughter, accountability, wine-and-cheese nights, “want to meet for coffee?” texts, and showing up for one another when life gets hard. My relationships with my girlfriends have become friendships I cherish so dearly, but I don’t always know if I share the value I place on them well enough. So this Galentine’s Day, I wanted to take the time to write a letter to the women I am so lucky to call my friends and express to them how precious they are to me.
Dear Galentine,
I want to remind you of all the beauty that you radiate from within. It comes from all the unique qualities that you put out into this world. It shines through the fearlessness you demonstrate as you boldly share your beliefs, even when, deep down, I know you sometimes feel scared. It beats along with your heart that is big enough to let everyone in, and in return causes others’ hearts to grow deeper. It shows in your dedication to the next generation: growing them, guiding them, teaching them, and showing up for them.
I hear it in the advice you so graciously give each and every time I need it, without ever expecting anything in return. I laugh along with it regularly, as your perfectly timed humor sends me into belly laughs. I feel it in your dedication to uniting our city so that people feel less alone. Your quiet leadership does not go unnoticed by me. The generosity you share as you freely give your time makes our community stronger, and while you may feel like just one person not doing enough, I see your impact. The way you show up for me and others during tough times is appreciated beyond words.
If you ever feel like who you are is not valued, I wish for you to revisit this letter. I hope that you are reminded of all the good that you are. I dream that you know your worth and that you never dull the qualities that make you unique. Happy Galentine’s Day, my beautiful friend.
All my love <3
