When we first met, we were so young, and I was just excited that a nice and smart boy even liked me. You’re my person because you’re someone who stops to help any time you see an accident on the road, a person who makes friends with the cat lady that works in your building, and then spends your weekends helping her rescue stray kittens. You’re someone who remembers that my grandpa loves peanut butter on his waffles and brings a jar of it to brunch for him. You know when to push me if I’m scared or when to comfort me by getting my favorite Ben and Jerry’s flavor. You’re the hardest working person I know and the sweetest. And you like all the same TV shows that I do. I promise to be your biggest supporter through success and failure, to encourage you when you doubt yourself, cuddle you because it’s your love language, and listen to you on trips when you suggest renting a car to go sight seeing even if it’s not on the itinerary. I’ll always be your travel buddy, hiking partner, cat co-parent, chef to your sous chef, and your best friend. I love you and I like you.

When we first met I was struck by your artistic talents, your Beatles trivia, and the strong connections you forged with those around you. I was proud to make you laugh at my terrible puns, excited to share my music through crackling old car speakers, and honored to be your next strong connection. You’re my person because you always care, you’re always there, and you stand up for your beliefs. You always care deeply for those around you, from your Cubberly Crew to new students at Redondo; from two legs to four paws, and whether they spark joy or mild frustration, you do what you can to make their lives better and more full. And your care is authentic - it draws a wide smile but can also bring you to tears, which shows just how invested you are in their lives. You’re always there for your family, friends, and community - in times of turmoil, when celebrating life events, or simply to talk. You show up for others because you know it’s important. You stand up for your beliefs and act on them not only when the stakes are low but also when it seems daunting. Whether you’re making the case for brussel sprouts to someone who’s only had them boiled, or acting on a social cause by marching, voting, or facilitating a student club to welcome the unwelcome, you speak your mind. You’re my person because over the past nine years you’ve made me a better man and I know there’s much left to grow. I promise to be present and actively listen, to care for you regardless of circumstance and bring Advil to concerts, to put you first in our future, to keep adventure in our lives, and to hum whatever tune is stuck in my head for far too long. And I’ll always make time for us. I love you AND I like you