This is Adil

Dear Adil,

I have known you for more than 20 years.

It’s been such a gift to have you as a friend for over two decades.

To watch you grow and to be able to grow alongside you.

It’s been a thrill to witness you lead organizations and projects that have impacted the lives of thousands, such as the Center for Social Innovation, Reset and Toronto For Everyone.

And to watch your incredible love story with the brilliant and beautiful Shilbee as it unfolded over the past decade has templated what is possible within love, for me and so many others.

You and I have probably had more courageous conversations than I’ve had with any other male friend in my life. The type of conversation that might start off difficult, because it addresses a hard truth, but then ends up changing our lives in so many amazing ways by allowing us to look at parts of ourselves that needed attention.

Recently, you held space for me as I processed some grief, sadness and anger. It was very difficult and much needed. Yet I want you to know that it inspired me and gave me hope about what is possible in friendship, especially amongst two men.

I love you Adil.

I can’t wait to continue growing alongside you and to keep rooting for you and your gigantic heart.

Big love,

PS: If you want to see the video reel I made for Adil you can find it on my Instagram or my TikTok.