IMPORTANCE OF FRIENDS

Recently I reached an important milestone in my life: On February 1, I turned twenty years old. For some people this brings all types of thoughts. Personally, I have looked at it as just another year, and endless possibilities still lie ahead. Over my twenty years, I have had a few obstacles to overcome, just like everyone else. Besides my very supportive family, the thing that has helped me reach this point in my life has been my friends.

Ever since I was little, I have had my fair share of friends. James Barker and I have known each other since we were 3 years old at Epiphany United Methodist preschool. Paul Sanner and I have been close friends since middle school. Whether it has been just hanging out on weekends, playing golf or a hot game of basketball, my friends have been there for me — through good times and even when I didn’t make the right decisions. My friends have been a tremendous part of my everyday life.

Over two and a half years ago, I met someone very special to me, Stephanie. From the day we met, Stephanie and I have been best friends plus she has been my girlfriend since June of 2004. I have had many guy friends in my life, but I have never met a girl who is as true a friend as Stephanie has been to me. Stephanie has been there to cheer me up when I’m having a bad day, or when I just need someone to talk to. She has definitely been a very positive influence in my life. She is one of the most caring, loving, and overall great people that I have had the pleasure of knowing. I truly do believe that it is because of her that the last two years of my life have been so successful. She has been like an Angel to me. I am so thankful that she came into my life.

— Stuart Rawlinson

Courtesy of The Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist