The memories will begin to fade—eventually, we will go our separate ways. But our relationship will last forever. 

From the moment we were born, I was given a best friend to walk through life with. From sharing our first breath on earth together to sharing a room for sixteen years, you have been—and always will be—my other half. My second self. My homegirl. My partner in crime. And the one who I am lucky to call my twin sister. 

Because of you, I’ve always had someone to walk into school with on the first day, someone to laugh with at stupid things, someone to make chores a little more bearable, and someone who understands me. But most importantly, because of you, I will always have a best friend. 

One of my most cherished memories with you happened last year when you showed me a video of Cory Asbury wishing me a happy birthday. It was after our fifth-hour classes, and you eagerly walked up to me smiling as if you had a secret you were dying to tell. I heard my name, so I grabbed the phone and watched what was being played. I quickly realized what it was, and with tears in my eyes I pulled you in for a hug. I remember looking at you through my blurry, teary eyes, and I saw you were just as emotional as I was. After that short encounter—with our wet eyes—we parted ways to go to sixth hour. 

Jae, that isn’t my favorite memory because of the video. Of course, the video means a lot to me, and I am grateful for it. But it’s my favorite memory because through just that small act, you showed me your heart and you showed me that I am loved. Thank you for that.

Thank you for making me laugh even when I don’t want to. Thank you for supporting me and being one of my biggest fans. Thank you for believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. Thank you for being a constant reminder of how lucky I got from the very beginning of our lives.

It’s hard to believe that in just sixteen short years we have made endless amounts of memories that will linger on. Our memories range from laughing and getting in trouble together, holding each other while the other cries to everything in between. There are too many to count. I remember sneaking down to your bed and staying up until the wee hours of the night. We would spend hours building forts out of chairs and blankets just to take them down the following day. 

I often think about our childhood and how we were always asked if we liked being a twin. My answer was always the same: “It’s ok. It’s not great, but it’s not bad.” Now my answer is this: I wouldn’t trade being a twin for the world. 

I can’t wait to watch you blossom some more throughout high school. I love you and know that I will always have your back. 

Your other half,

         Julia Carlson