It’s been a rough weekend. I caught the cold my daughter lovingly decided to share, and then I had an unfortunate run-in with my sons very large and extremely hard elbow. It came down on my nose and the CRACK, followed by twinkly stars, pain, and blood, was more than my stuffy sinuses could handle at the same time.
Needless to say, I decided to repost something I wrote, soon after starting this blog. It’s a subject I could write many more ‘words’ about, and I continue to ponder over it constantly. It hits close to home for me, the hubby, and both of our kiddos. Since that time, some friends have drifted even further away, while others have become much closer (if I haven’t mentioned how much I appreciate you lately, I do!). ‘Friendships’ are an amazing part of life and the cycle always seems to be changing…
What is a friend? Is it the guy/girl you hang with at school or eat lunch with? Could it be the person you share your craziest thoughts and secrets with? Or is it the one person who after having the worst day of your life you automatically call…that someone you know will be there for you anytime day or night, to sit by your side and hold your hand?
I’ve always found it amazing that during different times in my life, I could call a friend that I hadn’t spoken to in a while and we’d instantly pick up where we left off, without feeling awkward. What about those days when all you want to do is cry and the phone rings…or you get a text…or a card arrives in the mail when you least expect it. It’s like your bff has some sort of crazy sixth sense and can tell when you need him/her the most.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
My kids have opposing views on friendship. One believes it’s important to have as many friends as possible (even though only 2 or 3 of them are “best friends”) and the other believes 1 is more than enough for several reasons. My daughter is about to enter middle school and many times she’s upset over the way the girls at school treat her and each other. Her best friend is like her in many ways, yet in other ways, completely opposite. They have plenty of drama, but manage to work through it…but it doesn’t make the hurt any less as they deal with their differences.
I think we mistakenly believe that when we get older those “differences” we faced when we were young magically disappear. Unfortunately we still live in an imperfect world where resentment, anger, greed and pride exist. We may believe we’re doing all we can to make our relationships the best they can be, and yet they still fail. I’ve heard people say friends are like seasons…they come into our lives when we need them most, and disappear when we’ve made it through the “storm”.
This philosophy makes me sad, although I’ve lived through this scenario more than once in my own life. The beautiful thing is that when things in this world get too difficult we have a “bff” who will always be with us. He won’t abandon us and is never too busy to “talk”. I’m the first to admit I need to work on my friendship with my Lord and Savior. I can’t imagine a better investment of my time, yet I put it off and let much less important tasks take priority. He’s already given me all I could ever ask for and knows all of my deepest secrets. He won’t let me down when I fall short, and there’s nothing I can do or say that will make him love me less. If only we could accept and treat our friends in this same way…
John 15:12-13 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
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I’ve had many people who came into my life for a season in a special way. But I’ve had few good and close friends who’ve remained friends for any length of time. (I suspect I’m a bit intense for anyone to tolerate for very long at close range.)
But my family? They’re the ones who have grown up with me and know about all that crap without me needing to hide. They’re the ones connected to me forever, with no divorce option. I’m grateful that my four sisters and I are so close and so secure in our friendship. We’ve gone through hell and back together, and we’ve had times of tension. But they are the only ones on earth of whom I can confidently say, “Best Friends Forever.”
I’m so very blessed to have them, and grateful to my VERY best Friend Jesus for them.
PS: Sorry to hear about you being sick and smacked. I pray the Lord will speed your healing.
Thank you, Anne. I’m glad you stopped by and love what you shared!
“they come into our lives when we need them most, and disappear when we’ve made it through the “storm”.
This makes me sad too .. ‘cuz why can’t we share the good times after having shared the tough times?
I can’t help but still hope that every friendship lasts forever, but I realize that friends are more like a sunrise. Enjoy the beauty and warmth while it lasts. Some will stay, while others will brighten another’s day.
So, now I try to remember to hug and care as much as I can, when I can. ‘Cuz life isn’t perfect and sometimes friends move on.
I love how you ended this post with Jesus. He truly is the best of all friends. In my son’s words, “He’s the bestest!”
ooxx’s Bridget! Esp. so sorry about your nose. That was WAY too painful to read! ;p
Sorry you aren’t feeling well.
I was an only child, and growing up, there weren’t any kids living on the same block. I always had a hard time sustaining friendships, though I think that has improved.
You’re right- now I understand! Sorry to hear about the whole mess.
You are so right- there are many important relationships we have and maintain, but foremost is Jesus. He’s the friend that sticks closer than a brother…
I value all the friendships I have, but I value my friendship with Christ the most. He’s the one who knows me best, who lifts me up the most, and who has never let me down.
I hope you’re feeling better, Bridget. I think I have an old catcher’s mask out in the garage I can send you. You know, just in case…
I had to go to the grocery store earlier and I felt like some sort of mutant. I should have borrowed that mask…Just sayin.
Thank you, my friends. The external as well as the internal wounds are slowly healing. All of your kind words and support are extremely helpful and appreciated! I am truly blessed!