Krystle's Grace

I met Krystle at my first job in California. We worked at Macy's; I was a signer, and she was a merchandiser. We usually had to be there by at least 6 in the morning, if not earlier, to prep the sales floor. Since our job didn't involve much customer service, all of us early birds got a chance to work closely and share many long conversations. Krystle and I were two of the few young ones there. Most all the other employees opening the store were much older. Krystle and I clicked almost immediately. Soon we became inseparable, always getting in trouble for chatting too much. The first time we decided to hang out outside of work, I went with Krystle to the Grove. I had never been there before, and I knew very little of popular places in Hollywood. We talked and found we had a lot in common, especially our upbringing and faith. From then on, we started hanging out more often. We even decided to quit Macy's at the same time because we knew we'd be too bored working there without each other.

Krystle was the first friend I made in L.A. and has become one of my best friends, comparable to a sister. After my mom moved back east to live with my sisters, Krystle and I really became close. It was the first time I was absolutely on my own as an adult, and it was an extremely emotional transition. My mom and I had always been together, and there were many difficult moments between us before she left. My mom adores Krystle, so it was comforting for her to know I had someone out here to count on. And she wasn't wrong. Whenever I needed help or anything else, Krystle would come running. I remember the night my, at the time, boyfriend and I broke up. I called Krystle around 10 or 11 that night, and she came to meet me up at a grocery store parking lot where I cried my broken heart out to her. She's been there for me through my ups and downs, my heartbreaks, through my mother's illness, and even through my occasionally unbearable mood swings.

Krystle is a beautiful Filipina girl. She is sweet and caring. She has a cheerful nature and loves to laugh. She cracks me up with her cartoon faces. I am the biggest goofball, and she is too... so we understand and enjoy each other's humor. She has a big heart and reaches out to those in need. She is forgiving and never holds grudges toward anyone, no matter how badly she is wronged. She is teachable and humble, quick to apologize and ready to listen to advice. She doesn't know it, but she is wise beyond her years. Even though I am like the big sister, scolding and overprotecting her, many times I find myself learning from her and correcting my own behaviors. One time, this dude called me "the mother hen friend" LOL! LOL!! I will never forget that! I guess in a way I am, because she is much like me. She is sensitive, and I hate to see her disappointed expression when something or someone has let her down. Geez! I feel like it's practice for when I really have kids! Krystle is still figuring things out and searching for answers to many life questions. Sometimes I look at her and see myself a few years ago, confused and at moments discouraged, but determined to pull through. She aspires to greatness and has big dreams. She has the wings to fly so high, but she is still learning to use them. Soon, despite her doubts, she will be soaring way above her struggles!! She is talented and bright, bold and daring in spite of her fears. She is sophisticated and graceful. She is keenly fashion forward and very stylish. My taste in wardrobe has definitely been influenced for the better by observing her chic choices in her apparel. She is studying merchandise marketing at a reputable fashion school, and I know she is going to do amazing!!

Krystle, you are my sidekick!! We have been through a lot together, and I know there is so much more in store... meeting our future husbands, having children, pursuing our careers, continuing to grow spiritually, menopause!! LOL.. well let's not get too ahead of ourselves! I know God has an awesome plan for your life, and I believe you have the ability and capacity to fulfill your God-given destiny. Don't lose heart, life can be an adventure, and it's supposed to be FUN!!! But in the end, a lot of life is what we make it. I am always here for you. Thanks for everything.

Love you bunches :)