In the Heart of Jacksonville

There will always be people worth keeping. Through distance and time, those who hold high value should never be left to the side.

I have always believed that no matter what, friendships should always be tended.

Just as flowers need to be constantly watered, friendships should be too.

To me, a friend holds a lot of value, and I don’t call just anyone my friend. But if you happen to be one, know that I value you.

Whether it has been days, months, or years, time does not matter if I have given you that title of a friend because to me, you still matter.

And this can go with any type of relationship. Whether you are a very close loved one, or a special someone, always remember to take care of and treasure what you have in the moment.

I have learned that within any time, tomorrow will never be certain as it is not promised.

When it comes to valuing those around, I have always considered it important to care and be intentional with those particular people.

The way that I look at it is that it’s a garden that constantly needs to be watered and tended to. The more attention and love you give, the bigger the bloom and fruit it gives off.

In the case of “watering” people, just being attentive really does demonstrate a lot.

I would’ve never expected that after many years of always trying to figure out a time to meet up, I would fly out to see a dear friend of mine somewhat spontaneously.

But sometimes, you just have to.

You see, when you know there are people worth keeping close, effort and action are the only aspects that really show the other person how much you still care.

As a matter of fact, I have been to Jacksonville many times, but up until seeing my friend again, I never realized how quaint this city is. From its high buildings to its little nooks, being in the heart of Jacksonville has left me to treasure the hometown of someone I have always valued as a friend. This city is just a regular place to her, but I knew a visit would ultimately change things a bit—create a new memory outside of the ordinary.

Throughout our mini-adventure together, I would’ve never expected to find a rose garden tucked in between some sand dunes and a highway, nor to have walked along the coast with seashells all beneath my feet. For once, I have truly appreciated Florida a bit more than what I currently have. But more less, what mattered most was just seeing my friend again—how genuinely happy I was to see her as an individual who has personally grown tremendously since the last time I’ve seen her.

One of my favorite moments together was staying up late at night talking about major updates that have happened in our lives and not really taking note of the time it was. I also loved roaming around hidden neighborhoods looking for this one giant mansion my friend was crazy to see again.

It’s the little moments like these that make me feel even more alive, joyful, and grateful for specific people still present in my life.



All throughout the trip, there was not one moment of negativity. I think we were just so happy to see one another again that nothing could really ruin or interrupt what was naturally flowing out of our hearts—joy.

And to see my friend living her life to the fullest only gave me even more happiness knowing how much she’s done for herself and will continue to.

I really do hope (but also know) that no matter how far we are in distance, nothing can absolutely disrupt a genuine bond between close friends.

Yes, we don’t talk everyday as we both have several things to do, but most of the time, when you have genuine relationships, all you need is to pick up where you both left off.

And one thing I do want to say for you readers is this: take the time to really show others how much you care for them. It’s one thing to say words, but it’s another to act upon it because you never know. Maybe your love and affection will light up someone’s face again, and they will truly appreciate it.

As for my friend, this one is for you.

Thank you so much for everything you have done for me. From the sunflowers, to the sweets given to me as a treat from you, to all the little secrets shared with me because these are the little details that I will always hold close to my heart. Always know you are someone I will always value, and thank you for still being a part of my life when there was always a possibility we’d drift once we’d be apart. I have always known since the moment I met you, you’d be one to keep for a lifetime and I still truly believe we will always remain as friends.

And like what I told you many times throughout our trip, we are a brunette and a blonde with an inseparable bond. Never forget how I will always be there when you need me.

You are loved and I hope to see you again very soon!

And I’ll end off with saying with this: keep watering those people you love. Just be that person you have always wanted for yourself when it comes to friendships because you just never know if you are that one light shining upon others. Appreciate every moment with everyone you encounter and remember you don’t need anything big to show others you care. Just be there.

With many hugs and kisses,

Emily.