Friend

 

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.