Today I would like to talk about one of my closest friends, Anna.

We've known each other for two decades now.

We met in elementary school, when our teacher put us together for a science project, and we hit it off immediately.

It turned out that we were neighbors and only lived two doors down from each other, so we hung out all the time and have really gotten to know each other's families over the years.

Her parents are like a second family to me.

Anna is someone I really look up to.

She is kind and intelligent, but what I admire most is her ambition, tenacity, and work ethic.

When she sets her mind to something, there's no stopping her.

For example, last year she became interested in learning Italian.

Within six months, she was having natural, fluid conversations with our Italian neighbors, learned how to make her own pasta, and booked a month-long trip to Rome.

Despite her dedication and focus, Anna is also quite outgoing and charismatic.

She has the knack for making people laugh and lightening up any situation.

However, she can be a bit blunt at times, which some people might find off-putting.

I have to admit, there have been a number of times we have butted heads.

For instance, she's vegan and I, well, I'm a full-on barbecue enthusiast.

Despite some of our differences, we have never had a falling out, and I always appreciate her honesty and straightforwardness.

Anna has many qualities I love, but what I admire most about her is her reliability as a friend.

Whenever I have self-doubts or need a shoulder to cry on, she's always there for me, no questions asked.

We have been through thick and thin together, and our bond has only grown stronger with time.

I think it's important to have at least one truly close friend we can always count on, and for me, that person is Anna.

Her ambition, reliability, and sense of humor make her an exceptional person, and I feel fortunate to have her in my life.