Christina Lauren..

...is one of my absolute best friends in the entire world. She is a lot like me in many ways. She writes her feelings for people to see. She over-analyzes situations, and too often gives people the benefit of the doubt when they least deserve it, because she tries hard to justify every action, in hopes that people really aren't as terrible as they appear... Even when they really are. She isn't afraid to be emotional, or to show the world that she is. She cares for people who have trampled over her time and again, because she is a damn good person, and doesn't let insignificant, petty things change who she is. On that note, she's also much more forgiving, and much less bitter than I am. I applaud her GREATLY for that... and for constantly trying to be strong and there for people, when it's taking everything inside of her to even stand up and leave the house. For forgiving, and re-forgiving, and making time for people who have stabbed her in the back, because it's the right thing to do. I don't know how she does it... but I do know that I can only try to be as wonderful a person she is.

I'm quoting you, Chris.. This came from a blog she posted last year, and reading over it today, I can relate in so many ways.

By Christina Lauren Clous:

"If you know me you know i'm different from most people... I say what few attempt to... I'm very in touch with my feelings and my emotions... most people don't know how to handle it... they would rather ignore the obdvious... they live their lives in a bubble without emotions...

in my bubble you matter. Maybe you will never give me the satisfaction of knowing that I ever really mattered.... or give the respect and credit I deserve.... The only satisfaction I need comes from within now... cause I have done everything in my power to help others... to keep peace... to let them know who I am and what I'm thinking whether you want to hear it or not.

So here I stand. I am at a point in my life where anything is possible and i'm taking my chances... I'm not sure what the future holds but I am hopeful...I've taken chances before... landed flat on my face and I got right back up... and I have everyone who supported me to thank. I fucking worked my ass off to be where I am right now and thats somethig no one can take away from me...

...sometimes I miss having all who are dear to me being a phone call or a ten minute drive away... instead now I keep in touch through voicemails, e-mail and messages on myspace.

Life is busy and ever changing.... stay strong... make every minute count.... do the best you can to make a difference in peoples lives. Thats what I strive for.... I'm praying for my dear friend and for the health and happpiness of all those that I care for...

... even if it's been a minute or two... I forgive you... even if you never asked me to... I still forgive you for not being there.... even though all I wanted you to see was the best in me..."