Friend. It’s a word
spoken casually. I’m guilty of it
too. However, there is a certain
inflection used when referencing those special friends. You know, the ones who have been by your side
since before you can remember. There are
pictures of the two of you in diapers. You literally celebrated your first
birthdays together. Or how about those
friends who adored you although you wore uniform polo shirts tucked into your
not-so stylish high-water khakis. They
smiled back at you with a mouth full of braces and the two of you looked
forward to “Christian T-Shirt Friday” when you could really show off your
fashion sense. Then there are the
friends you are blessed to find later in life.
The unexpected ones that you discover in a college classroom or maybe a
moms group. The ones that are there at
the right time…right when you need them and they need you. You exchange a few words and you just
know. There is a kindred connection.
I have been beyond blessed to have all of the above
scenarios play out. My dad used to say
most people can only count their true friends on one hand. I think he has it half right. Sure, there are seasons when I cannot be
connected with each woman who has held a special place in my life. But, our past experiences bond us together
and I will forever know them as “friend”.
Because time cannot erase Summer fun, family vacations, sleepovers,
first boyfriends, first break-ups, high school graduation, college shenanigans,
weddings, and babies. I just think of
the time and I’m right back in that place.
Friend.
