Happy Birthday

You know the person who you can tell everything to, without reservation or worry? The kind of person who knows what you’re going to say before you say it? The one who is just as happy to see you in the spotlight as to be in the spotlight? Whose strengths balance your weaknesses, and whose character challenges and convicts yours?

The person whose soul is cut from the same cloth, and whose personality intertwines with yours?

We have words for these sorts of people: best friends, kindred spirits, soul mates. They don’t begin to describe this kind of relationship, but our language is an imperfect one, and it is the best we can do.

Twenty-one years ago today, Lauren was born, and we have been inseparable ever since. Her determination—whether in mastering long division, reading through the Bible, or running seven miles—inspired me every day, not to compete against her, but with her. Her gentleness and graciousness towards those around her often remind me of Jane from Pride and Prejudice. Can she really say nothing bad about anybody? I, who am so quick to be harsh to those around me, am often convicted by her mercy to those around her.

She leads tactfully and quietly, guiding our siblings into a habitual morning prayer time and keeping the household running smoothly. Lauren is quick to apologize when she is wrong but earnest in her principles when she has a conviction. Many people get the impression that she is quiet when they first meet her, but Lauren is always the first one to greet new people and introduce herself. She can make anyone feel welcome by drawing out their interests and dreams, and before you know it, she has found another friend.

My life has nearly always been “our life” as we pursue the same interests, goals, and dreams, and I wouldn’t have it any other way, for I know that I would not be who I am without Lauren’s encouragement, accountability, and love. We were eighteen before we ever spent a night apart, and while I know that the time may come when we spend more nights apart than we do together, that thought motivates me to cherish this time that we have together even more. 

So to my bosom friend, my confidant, my ally—my twin: happy birthday.