Describe a friend you have known for a long time

I'd like to describe my friend Aziza, whom I've known for about fifteen years. We met on our very first day of primary school. The teacher sat us next to each other because our surnames were alphabetically close, and by the end of the lesson we were sharing a pencil case and giggling about something I can no longer remember.

Over the years, we've done almost everything together. We went through the same secondary school, studied for our exams side by side, and spent most summer holidays at each other's houses. These days we're at different universities in different cities, so we don't see each other as often, but we always meet up during the holidays. We usually go to our favourite café, order far too much cake, and talk for hours.

There are a few reasons why we've stayed friends for so long. First of all, we have very similar values. We both care about honesty and hard work, and we don't judge each other for mistakes. Secondly, we're good at being open. If one of us feels hurt, we say so rather than letting the problem grow. I think that's why we've never really had a serious argument.

Also, she's the kind of person who is there when it matters. When my grandfather passed away two years ago, she took a long bus journey just to sit with me, without being asked. A friendship like that is rare, and I don't take it for granted. Even if we end up living in different countries one day, I'm sure we'll find a way to stay in touch.