I met this girl through our college ministry (same goes for half of the girls). The moment I laid eyes on her, I knew something was special about her; no not because she’s Filipino but I was just drawn to her just like a lot of people are. From being complete strangers, to leading bible study together, to becoming apartmentmates to eventually being roommates, Pam and I have shared so many intimate events and memories in our lives that to this date I am and will forever be thankful for. She’s that friend that I can have a full on intimate conversation by just quoting old love songs.

This girl right here is the girl that keeps me grounded and reminds me how to love right. She’s one of the ten people that had made America felt home when I just moved from the Philippines. I was introduced to her in high school by my cousin Loren and Joanna started referring to me as her “cousin” too. Three years of dance, two years of tennis, years of being long distance, and many filipino songs later, and we’re still not cousins, just friends. Really great friends. But she’s practically like a sister to me. My parents seriously have been wanting to adopt her for so long. She’s my most needy friend but because of this she made me appreciate what true friendship really means - uncomfortable. I mean, sacrificial. That’s what I wanted to say.

There are not enough space to tell stories about my friendship with this girl. She’s my token white girl friend. It has been the most craziest friendships I’ve ever had because this girl is CRAY! Like Pam, Sara, and Victoria, I met this chick through our college Ministry; exactly how I met her you ask? It’s better if you ask me in person than for me to write it here. SO ASK ME HOW! Throughout the years, we’ve had our battles, fights, tears, farting on each other’s faces moments, and most importantly laughters, and a lot of laughters together. She’s that girl that will love you fearlessly but be careful because it’s contagious and you’ll end up finding yourself with that phrase “love fearlessly” tatted on you.

Nelly will always be my boo. FOREVER. I joined dance in high school and that’s when I first saw her and instantly became a fan of her awesome dance skills. I used to always tell myself everytime I would watch her go across the dance floor, “Damn! She’s so cool. I’ll never be friends with her.” But all I needed to do was feed her and boom we’re more than friends; we’re family. She’s still awesome not just with her dance skills but with her skills in being the most honest friend a girl like me could ask. Like if you ask her if you’re ugly that day, she’ll tell you, “No! I’m not friends with ugly people!”. I can’t imagine life without her, because there’s no one else that would drool over the same hot guys with me than this girl.

I look up to this girl so much. I mean literally, because she’s so tall. But also, figuratively. Just like Joanna and Rhenell, I met Rita through dance class and tennis in high school. But unlike Joanna and Rhenell, this girl decided to stalk me and go to the same college. This girl is the most down with anything friend I have. In college, I would force her to eat dinner with me and be friends with my friends and even go to church with me. But no complains, nothing but love from this girl. When in doubt, I always asks myself, “What would Rita Jen do?” Her bravery and independence is something that have helped me through many trying times in my life.

Mah ex-Ho (Her last name used to be Ho). I don’t quite remember the exact moment I met Sara but all I remember is from then on, she’s been a solid friend that God has graciously given to me to run to and depend on, especially during the hardest parts in life. Her thoughtfulness and sweetness never fails to amaze me and inspires me. One of my favorite memories with her is staying up long late hours in college to finish up reports and presentations for Physiology and just being delirious and talking about all the ghetto things and hot guys we could think of.

Queen Victoria is something special. She’s the queen of it all, especially when it comes to falling asleep while holding a book without the book even falling. Our love for food has always been the major player in our relationship. This girl taught me how to make the perfect poached egg. We’ve been through so much throughout our friendship but I don’t regret any single part of it. She’s not afraid to call you out nor be real with sharing about her life and it really sets an example for me to be honest about my life too. I’m so thankful and honored that she’s one of my bridesmaids.

My relationship with George is what I’d define as “thick & thin.” I met this guy in college and we developed a “disciple/disciplee” relationship, though that never really panned out the way it sounds. George is one of the most loving people I know; super dependable, and will spare no expense getting to know you and what you’re about, no judgement. I’m honored to have his as my best man, as that’s exactly what he is-my best bro, through thick and thin.

I’ve known Jason for YEARS, and he’s literally my oldest fiend. We’ve been best buds since 8th grade, and watch each other grow in faith over the years. He taught me how to appreciate nature, how to bike irresponsibly, and enjoy creation as God meant for us to enjoy. There have been ups and downs, but God’s worked to make this guy one of the most passionate people I know in the name of Jesus. I’m blessed to have him as a groomsmen, as somebody that has known and been with me over the years.

What can I say, this is my brother. There’s an unspeakable pact that happens when you’re bonded by blood, and Mike has been with me through it all. He's seen me at my best, but mostly at my worst, and he's there for me with no judgment. Now that we live across coasts it's crazy watching him grow up and take charge of his life. 

I'm not totally sure why we're friends, but somehow our friendship has become a long lasting, real friendship. I'd say 90% of our friendship is over gchat, but it's valuable conversation. Chris has been deeply supportive of Stacey and my relationship, and while we only get to see each other once or twice a year, I’m blessed to be walking in life with him.

I first heard about Andrew when somebody came up behind me and said “Andrew!!!” Since then we’ve been mixed up like 1000 times haha. He’s my roommate, twin, and has quickly become a confidant and a true supporter of my life and walk. Truly blessed to have such a friend that I've met here in my time in New York that makes a large city feel more homely.