The Gift Of Friendship

I received a wonderful surprise in the mail last month. The package contained a lovely soft and fluffy scarf, my favorite fragrant sachet, and an adorable fox ornament. Receiving gifts from friends is a blessing, especially if they are unexpected. It is truly humbling to know that someone cared enough to knit me something lovely and remember what makes me smile.

When I wrapped the scarf around my neck I felt warm and loved. That's how true friendships are in my life. There is a sense of being embraced and welcomed, flaws and all. When I am in need of prayer I feel their invisible hugs envelope me as they cry out to the Lord on my behalf. These friendships are cherished and I am careful to make sure they are nurtured.

As with all important relationships, it takes time to get to know one another. Every meeting is an opportunity to shed a thin layer of our masks, revealing a little more of ourselves in spite of the fear of rejection or judgment. Sometimes it takes a while to feel comfortable enough to the point of losing the mask, but I have been blessed to meet women who want to speed the process along with me. And, as the years go by, I immediately know who will be that true friend, and who will not.

Long-lasting and meaningful friendships take time, commitment, patience, and reciprocation. It's not a one-way street. If I feel guilty for not giving enough or feel resentful for giving too much, then I have to re-think the relationship. Being honest about a friendship, psuedo or real, prevents frustration or discouragement and both parties are free to either work at it or consider the other as an acquaintance. Pretense doesn't bode well in any relationship.

I cherish my close friendships. As I grow older I keep them bound to my heart and hope to never let go of them. Women need one another, especially during these days of uncertainty, when fear of the future may sometimes overwhelm us. We pray for one another when crises arise, we encourage one another when that goal is at arm's length, and we inspire one another with God's Word.

Oftentimes, however, all we need is a nice warm hug. My friends are pretty good at that!