I came to Hawaii last summer not knowing anyone, but I left having formed some important friendships. Though I left, it didn’t end there. I was genuine and had every intention of upholding these relationships. So after months of not seeing people I was able to come back and pick up where we left off.
We spent an hour minimum waiting for a table so that we could have dessert for breakfast. My favorite meal of the day is brunch, so a long wait wasn’t going to stop me from guava pancakes drenched in coconut syrup. What made it even more special was that I got to spend that time with people who are dear to my heart.
There were two girls who I instantly connected with last summer. Yes they are at least five years younger than me, but I wanted to be there for them. I made myself available and wanted to be a person they could trust and talk to. I wanted to spread Christ’s light to them, because I knew at that age all I ever sought out for was a person who cared.
First was Lynnie. It all started with a piece of cake, and there’s no going back now. She may say she won’t miss me and I might make her clean rat poop, but I adore her to pieces. I admire her kindness, her willingness, and her sass. I never expected leaving Hawaii with a friendship like the one we have, but I am so grateful for it. If it wasn’t for her daily reminders to save money for Hawaii, I may never have gone back for spring break. She is my slave, and there is no one else I’d rather have call me issues than her.
Then there’s Abby. She is beautiful and crazy and wild, but at the end of the day she’s a teenage girl who moved to a new state and is just trying to figure out how to have a great life. I don’t know when I first met her, but what I do know is that she instantly latched onto me. Shy is the last word I would use to describe Abby, and it’s a quality I envy. I remember being her age and closing myself off to the world, but she has spunk and isn’t afraid to show it. I care so deeply about her heart and can’t wait to see what incredible things are in store for her.
I may be a time zone and many miles away, but I try to do everything in my will to let these girls know how much I care about them. So Lynnie and Abby, if you ever read this, remember I’m only a phone call away.