10. Two Years is a Long Time for Me

"Young girl just 18 years old, wasn't quite ready to see her best friend go for 730 days. She tried to hold back but the tears gave way. Saying, "Two years is a long time for me, to be here, without you it's hard to believe. But I know it's the right thing, and i'll miss you dearly." "

These are the words to a song by Carli Barlow titled Two Years. This song was very influential as my best friend and I prepared to say good-bye for the long, yet wonderful two years.

Cade and I became friends at the end of our Freshman year, and we immediately clicked. In high school, we quickly became best friends who did everything together. The early spring of our Senior year quickly came, and along with it came his mission call. I was so excited for him to go out and serve. He has been my rock, and has helped me more than any person ever has. He is my greatest example. The night he opened his call, all of our friends were crowded in the room. When he read the two words "Elder Jolley" I became overwhelmed. I was so excited that my best friend was going to be a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We were all so excited for his call: Rapid City, South Dakota. I knew it was perfect for him, and it was truly inspired.

The weeks quickly passed, and next thing I knew we were graduating. Suddenly July 9th seemed so much closer. He was visibly so excited to serve, and we talked about it often. As the time drew near, it became more real, and even became difficult to think about the future. We had both been accepted to BYU, but I wanted to start school alongside my best friend. It became incredibly hard to see him get ready to go, but I tried to remain optimistic and supportive because I knew this is where he was needed.

The day to say goodbye came all too fast. Our group of friends all sat talking, until the time was close for him to get set apart as a missionary. I was the first to get up to go; I didn't want to cry or distract from the moment. We had a long tearful goodbye, and I left with so many mixed emotions. Although I was happy for him, my heart was heavy, I had no idea what I was going to do without him.

It is now November 19th, and Elder Jolley has been out for almost 5 months. He is serving the people in Sundance, Wyoming. I have never seen him happier! Even though there are days and moments were I miss him so much, hearing about his success and how much he loves it there makes it all worth it. We both know that is where he is needed, and even though we are far apart I believe our friendship and relationship has strengthened immensely. The Lord has still  taken care of me, and provided me with other amazing and supportive friends who have helped make the adjustment much easier.

The song Two Years was something that Cade and I both loved to turn to. The last lyrics of the song are from the missionary's perspective:
"Two years is a time for me, to give back, for I owe, each breath that I breathe. It's just a small thing, when you look at eternity."