This is not a sequel. This is not like the last time I wrote about a friend who will remain nameless. This time it’s very much positive and uplifting, but I don’t want it taken the wrong way, so I am writing it here.

Thank you, my friend. I can never express in words how much it has blessed me to be your friend and to get to know you. I know you are going away soon, moving halfway across the country, and I will miss you deeply.

I always look forward to seeing your contagious smile each Sunday. You have such a charismatic and winning way about you. I secretly hope that some of your enthusiasm will rub off on me. Any time I see you, my day is instantly better.

I had hoped at one point that maybe some day we could be more than friends, but I see now that is not in God’s plan, so I am very much content to be your friend for as long as God allows. I know God has someone special for you, and whoever he is will be blessed indeed.

When God brings me a wife (so I’m hoping), if she is half as outgoing, has half as much of a servant’s heart that you do, if she is half as lovely, then I think I will have received more than I deserve.

I can’t wait to see and read and hear about what amazing things God is going to accomplish in and through you in this new season of your life. I hope you will keep me posted on it all. I will be praying for you every time God brings you to mind.

I have been and always shall be — your friend.