It is rare to be able to say that you have known someone, who is not blood-related, your whole life. Our mothers met dog walking in the park while pregnant. From that day we were aware of each other. Once we were out in the world we were always together in some way. Playing mermaids in the spa of the house on Magnolia, sleepovers in the backyard at my parent's house, and finding ways to annoy Big Nicole in the house on Broadway. From lazy sunbathing days by the pool, to 'rotting' on the couch in the house on Fordham, we always made time for each other. So many firsts: First kiss, first drink, first boyfriend, first puppy, first family camping trip, first heartbreak and all the heartbreaks after. Obscure confessions like "I used to steal your Barbie clothes". Sometimes, Sydney can not recall any of the things that I remember with vivid detail but she knows that she was there with me.
I can remember very specifically we were seven years old when she started talking about getting married. It was always going to be a fall wedding. She wanted a massive emerald cut diamond engagement ring. Sunflowers and roses, sprinkled with babies breath. There was going to be so much pink. Seven-year-old me dreaded the pink frilly bridesmaid dress she would find but knew I would wear whatever she told me to because it was her day. Over the years her dreams grew and change with her but one thing remained the same. She wanted to get married and be a mom. Here we are 21 years later and it is such a privilege to be here. To see the way Syd has grown and overcome all the things the universe has thrown at her.
After some trial and error, the universe saw that she was ready and gave her Eddie. While I have been in a different time zone for most of their relationship, I admire him for so many reasons; his thoughtful questions when we are on calls, his kindness extends to everyone around him, his selflessness. Mostly, I admire him for the way he loves her. His love has not only supported her but taught her to compromise and embrace a life that seven-year-old us would have never imagined for her. Seven-year-old Syd probably would have said "Ew, gross."
This is the happiest I have ever seen her. Seeing them gives me hope that Happiness is not temporary but a string of moments connected by unconditional love that makes the bad days seem insignificant. This love is not just found in our partners but in families, we create for ourselves through meaningful connections.
That is why I keep living. Because I am loved. Because I love Syd too much to let her live a life without me. Hopefully one day I will be loved the way Eddie loves Syd.