Friends

We need each other. If this pandemic has taught us anything, it is how much human connection really matters.

I have always had wonderful friends. In every stage of life, women (and men, but this post is for the women) from all ages have surrounded me with love. During this pandemic, I have been able to reconnect with a few, and I am so grateful for the extra time and technology that enables me to reach out.

Being able to pick right up with a friend after months or years without talking is soul-filling. I am thankful today for:

• the friend I have had since first grade
• those high school friends that wrote lots of silly notes with me
• the friend who took me to countless concerts
• the one who showed me how fun married life would be
• she who introduced me to my husband
• the one who has long, meaningful conversations with me
• the friend who texts early in the morning
• the one who teaches me in every conversation
• the group at church that holds one another up and shares life together
• the mamas that slogged through toddlerhood with us
• the friend who would drop everything to be here if I asked
• she who modeled being a professional
• the ones who listen, guide, cry, and laugh

This list could go on for pages. I am so thankful for all the women that God has placed in my life at just the right time.

What all of these friends have in common is that they opened themselves up to real connection. They shared their hearts: the good, the bad, the fears, and the joys. Each one unique. Each beautiful inside and out. Women willing to listen and speak truth, even when it hurts. Women who band together and can do hard things. Friends who lean on each other, even when they dislike accepting help with a passion. For all of those friends, I am grateful.