"What is something you have that everyone wants?" she asked me
and immediately it blurted out of my mouth, "A family" I said.

Then I felt the need to explain. Because most people have a family associated by blood, parents that gave birth to them, and some with siblings and cousins. But I meant it differently. I meant MY FAMILY.

Everyone wants a support system that is always, and will always be there for them with open arms, security, safety, and guidance. Everyone wants parents that they can be open with, to communicate honestly with, and be loved in return unconditionally-- shamelessly with no fear. Everyone wants the two older sisters who mother, as much as they cover, who guide and say "I told you so" as much as they let you make your own mistakes-- and still are there to pick up the pieces after you fall to the ground.

And when I thought of unconditional love, I thought everyone also wants the best friend that I have. He's might-as-well be family. He is always there for me, he understands me, and loves me through all my quirks -- and even 6,000 miles away, he manages to be here for me through everything I go through, not forgetting the connection we've built the past 6 years. He's non-judgmental, endures my pain, and keeps his promises. He too, guides, supports and is my safety net, and those open arms are all anyone would need in hard times.