There’s something about a friend who has known you FOREVER that makes them special. Knowing your bestie since high school means they have seen you through all your highs and lows and, somehow, you two are still going stronger than ever. Here are 18 reasons why your best friend from high school will be your lifelong BFF.

1. You survived each other’s awkward teenage years together.

They loved you even during your prepubescent braces, neon stripes and Jesse McCartney-obsessed phase.

2. They know all of your embarrassing stories.

They’re not afraid to use them against you, but they also know when to keep them a secret.

3. You can reminisce about all your high school memories together.

You can talk about that one time at the pep rally and they know just what you mean.

4. They understand you better than anyone.

After all these years, they practically know you better than you know yourself.

5. When someone asks who your best friend is, you always think of them.

Now that is true friendship.

6. They know all of your past crushes and lovers.

They know all the crazy stories about Jordan from freshman year of high school and that cute athlete you hooked up with at last night’s party.

7. You are totally and completely comfortable together.

You have long forgotten the word “boundaries” because you’ve known each other that long.

8. You’ve always gotten through fights and drama.

Nothing has ever come between you guys and it never will.

9. They’re the one person who will drop everything and come over to your house at 2 a.m.

They won’t even ask any questions.

10. They make you excited to go back to your hometown.

Home wouldn’t be the same without them there.

11. Your families know each other.

You know all the gossip about their cousins and you’ve friended their mom on Facebook.

12. You always have things to catch up on and talk about.

Since you went to college, you may not see them everyday, but when you get the chance to talk your conversations are epic.

13. They’re never afraid to give you some tough-love.

After knowing you this long they aren’t scared of hurting your feelings when it’s necessary.

14. You have the best inside jokes that no one can understand.

Your high school bestie can make you laugh harder than anyone else with just a few simple words.

15. They know how to cheer you up when your heart is breaking.

Whether it’s with a tub of Ben & Jerry’s or a just a big hug, they know how to make it all feel better.

16. You’ve been talking about future plans for years.

You have convinced them to name their first born after you.

17. They’re the person you have vowed to marry if you’re still single at 40.

You know your friendship is so strong that it WILL last that long.

18. You’ve stayed close during college, even though you both lead separate lives.

Whether you have thousands of miles between you or just a new friend circle, the fact that you’re still close shows how special they are.

There’s no doubt that you best friend from high school is going to be a lifelong BFF. You two have had a strong bond for years now and nothing is going to break it!

18 Reasons Why Your Best Friend From High School Will Be Your Lifelong BFF