I've been thinking of friends, lately. Probably because they have been my lifeline more than once and my sanity this year.
I've mentioned before that in college I made two friends. They are my life long best of friends. When I married and moved away, I struggled to make that type of friend again. I oft lamented (here, even!) that maybe those types of friends were a special college only thing and the older you got, the more difficult it became to find those "drop by for hot chocolate and a chat" kind of friends. And I don't think I'm entirely wrong. With schedules and families and to do's a mile long, it IS tough to have that insta-bonding and carefree time you had in college.
I've tried to become close to a LOT of people in the past 15 years with varying degrees of friendship and success. I had resigned myself to a lot of 'good' friendships and a LOT of great acquaintances, but none I would call in the middle of the night to cry with should the worst happen. Until recently.
I've written that I've found myself in a very unexpected friendship this year and it's true. Against all odds, I find myself with not one, but two of the 'drop by and chat / middle of the night the worst is happening' kind of friends. And it wasn't until a chat with one of them last week that I really, honestly let myself believe that these women are here to stay. Permanently. That we'll be laughing and telling stories while sipping hot chocolate when we're 80. That we will be, no we ARE ALREADY, the kind of friends I thought I was too old to find. That came along once in a lifetime and my lifetime quota had been met. But no. I'm not. And it wasn't. And I will forever be grateful. Because there is nothing in this life like a couple of best girlfriends to see you through. To keep you sane and grounded. To stand by your side or to weep with you. I'm so blessed and I know it. And I firmly blame them for my recent softening around the edges and bursting heart.
But I'm not really complaining.
(guns n roses, welcome to the jungle)
Lucky!
ReplyDeleteFriends like that really are a rare and wonderful blessing!
ReplyDeleteDon't I know it.
ReplyDeleteI sent you an email, but I wanted to comment on your blog as well. I echo your sentiments exactly... It has been years since I have found a friend that I feel so comfortable around. I am thankful everyday for you and Lora and Sharon. The misfit that I am seems to fit nicely here.
ReplyDeleteAnd we happily, HAPPILY! take you!
ReplyDelete