I just finished celebrating my birthday which was towards the beginning of the month. I've had friends shower me with flowers and cards and posts and texts and messages for nearly 3 weeks. The group of friends (I include my sisters and mom in this group) that are in my life are not only wide, but they are deep and kind and relentless in their celebratory demonstrations. Every time someone would bring flowers by my house, or send a note, or give me a birthday hug I was overwhelmed once again by the knowledge that my people "have me". These are friends who are so strong and so wise. They have suffered and endured, coming through their fires more beautiful and capable than when they first smelled the smoke.
One of my friends wrote me a blessing - words that are so meaningful that the card will go in a very special place where I can be reminded often of her heart towards me. Another friend both honored and humored me with a tribute related to a favorite TV of mine that I encouraged her to watch. The creativity and true wishes that she conveyed in her writing touched me so deeply. My little sister, skilled in embroidery, made me a picture of a house in a garden. It now hangs on the wall of my office as a reminder of a few of my favorite things - my sister, my home, my garden. My older sister gave me the most beautiful set of bracelets and a tank top with my favorite verse on it, acknowledging a new faith step I'm taking in my yoga practice. My mom blessed me with the gift of a massage - as I lay there relaxing I was struck with the absolute perfection of her gift to me. This year has been one of the most stress-filled 365 days, and my sweet mom understood exactly what I needed.
Two girlfriends blessed me with gifts that fit my love for vintage/retro treasures. Friends took me out for drinks, pizza, mexican food and other deliciousness. I had a group of friends over to celebrate in my garden enjoying both God's gift of friendship and a beautiful summer night. Patrick and I attended a concert with some friends. That night will be a forever memory of us enjoying one of our favorite singers under a perfect, starlit June sky.
I've heard friendship described in many different ways, but the concept that makes the most sense to me is that of friendship as a net. It is widespread and taut, ready to catch me at any moment. This net is ever present, moving beneath me. The women who make up this net are faithful, available, and they know me. I can text or call them and they will answer, they will pray, they will advise, they will cry, they will catch. They are friends who aren't just in proximity, but they are very present. And I need them desperately. I need their hugs and their prayers and their advice and their wisdom. I love their creativity and watching them grow. The truth is we need each other!
As I have been celebrated for nearly a month now, I have had the chance to take a look at the ways that I am a friend. I have great examples of how to show up for people, and I have been inspired to be a better friend, to love more deeply and sincerely. I am most grateful to God that He chose me to sit in the middle of this chosen net of friends. He has shown me over and over that He wants me right there, so that I can be blessed by the people He has given to me.
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