This is the boy who taught me the meaning of wonder. Who put it in my eyes, formed the expressions in my features and draped it over my skin in a cascade of rose petals. An image he tells me, which is seared in his mind.

This is the boy who embodies the leap of faith. Who takes a chance, or two, or twelve. In moving to a new city or flying to live in a new continent for six months, for the sake of a prize that may or may not be worth it. His actions speak louder than words, and those loved by him never have to doubt it.

This is the boy whose very soul must be filled with magic, the kind that most people eventually grow out of after too many disappointments. He is adventure, excitement, joy, and the next horizon.

This is the boy who told me “let me show you how you’re meant to be treated” and kept his word. Who said “You were meant for greatness” who not only meant it, but made me believe it.

This is the kind of boy you spend a lifetime hoping you meet, who you save your kisses, your hopes, and the last cookie for. And this is precisely the boy I am afraid I will never quite get over.