Emily de la bronx.

I'm from the Bronx...WOOF.

This is what Emily does when she gets hit on by men she doesn't like. Just kidding, she has never once done this, but we always joke that it would be funny if she did. It's really actually ironic, because Emily is one of the sweetest, kindest, most genuine people you will ever meet. She would never be this aggressive towards anyone, although she has had to learn quite a few tricks to keep the men away because she is straight up BEAUTIFUL.

She is one of my best friends, and I feel beyond privileged to dedicate this post to her.

Emily has to be one of the most interesting people in my life. Born and raised in the Bronx with an affinity for cooking, she brings more than the flavor of NYC and her Puerto Rican roots to the table. Her willingness to invite me into her community and her patience with my white person ways has truly turned my world upside down. She has taught me to listen with great care and humility, gently reminding me that we all have a story worth sharing. Never once has she judged me, never once has she hesitated to walk with me through a difficult season. Her love has always been open and true, allowing me the freedom to be who I am, where I am--with no expectations of perfection.

I think one of the things I love most about Em is her earnest desire to know me and my life. We have been friends for over five years (isn't that crazy, Em?!) and neither distance nor time has managed to diminish  the strength of our friendship. I know that no matter if a week or two months go by, we will always pick up right where we left off. We are constantly learning from one another, and I never walk away from a conversation without feeling encouraged. She makes people feel comfortable, and from that, I think they feel known.  They can be silly or serious--she loves and accepts it all.

As I mentioned before, Emily is most certainly a pretty girl. But more than this, I can honestly say she has one of the most beautiful hearts of anybody I have ever met. And I can say this because my own heart has been enveloped by hers. If love is indeed an action, Emily has already mastered its aim. Just by being who she is I feel loved, and I could never replace or replicate the impact she has had upon my journey. She is real, she is honest, and I am far better for having known her. Though she will often tell you she is shy, her readiness to make friends often discounts this--I really don't think you will ever meet a person that doesn't like her. She is warm in her spirit and authentic in her manner, and I know this will never change.

She is Emily de la bronx, and we will always be tethered at the heart.