Twisting open the cap, a wave of relief washes over me as I hear the familiar fizz from my beloved beverage companion. We’ve been through hell and back, but I’ve always trusted this bubbly brew to pick me up. We met years ago, and I can confidently admit that it has become a permanent part of my life.

I was a mere seven years old, swinging my feet merrily as I ate my cheeseburger (with only pickle of course) happy meal while sitting with my family.

I had chugged all of the water in my cup, which was way too small, and had gotten up to get a refill. As I walked to the soda fountain machine, I decided that I wanted to try something new.

I knew that water was extremely healthy for you and all of that jazz, but I craved something different. And that’s when I saw it, perched upon the soda fountain, outstretching its hand in greeting. It introduced itself to me and I knew instantly that this was the start of a beautiful relationship.

Mesmerized by its black and red face, which sat upon a gray complexion, I proceeded to fill my cup, which was still too small, with my new acquaintance’s product. It didn’t have to do much to convince me, for after taking my first sip, I was instantly hooked.

The bubbly feeling that erupted in my stomach then raced its way up to my heart, flowing throughout my entire being, giving me an overwhelming sense of completion. I didn’t know it then, but that first drink would impact my life in ways I had never imagined.

As the years passed and we both matured, we had our fair share of ups and downs. From fights with friends to bad grades on tests, my longtime comrade never left my side, offering me comfort and a tasty drink at the same time.

It kept me company during late night study sessions and attempted “all-nighters” after purchasing the latest Call of Duty video game.

But upon entering high school, I began to slowly see the distance being created between us. I discovered new temptations, like Powerade Zero, who had slithered its way into my life, consuming my every drink.

I watched, helpless, as my oldest friend slowly faded into the background.

I proceeded to go the next few years without seeing my former sidekick, except for a handful of times.

It wasn’t until recently that I found my way back to my first companion. It was sitting in my fridge, for I had purchased it just a few days prior.

As I left for school, I stopped by the fridge, plucked it from its slumber, and slipped it into my backpack. A few hours later, I pulled it from my backpack and twisted the cap open, taking the first sip.

It was in that sip that I finally remembered everything that I cherished.

Diet Coke. My first friend, and oldest companion. We had found our way back to each other, through all of the twists and turns that we call life.

It was during this reunion that I was reminded of the famous quote from “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” Steven Chbosky’s timeless novel.

“And in that moment, I swear we were infinite.”