I have never been an overly confident type of girl.  I like to blend in and fade into the background.  Throughout my life, I have had a hard time really feeling like I really belonged anywhere.  Or, that there was anything special our interesting about me that I could really offer anyone else.  And, because I didn't feel like there was anything special about me, I never really felt like I "deserved" to feel like I stood out to anyone. 

But, eveyone wants to feel like they matter.  Lately, I have really come to realize how important that is.  I didn't think it mattered to me.  But, it does.  And, I think the older I get, the more it matters.  I want to feel like I have an impact on someone.  Life is short when you look at the big picture.  And, for my short time here, I am learning that I hope I have stood out to somone and made a difference. 

And, that is why I am so thankful for my best friend.  I finally feel like I fit in somewhere.  I have found security within myself from being around him.  For the first time in my life, I really feel like I am special and important and that I matter.  And, having that foundation of good is helping me in so many other areas of my life.  It is amazing what just a little bit of security and self confidence can do.  Knowing someone is there through thick and thin and will love me unconditionally helps me take chances.  I'll go out on limbs and take risks that I would never consider doing just a year ago.  But, knowing at the end of the day, whether I made a great decision or a huge mistake, I'm still okay.  I'm still loved.  I'm still special.  And, I'm still important.

So far, I think my favorite "life lesson" I've learned, is the lesson of how important it is to let yourself be loved.