I consider myself lucky, I’ve got a circle of friends that at times seems surreal. I can honestly say without the support of my dearest friends, I would not have weathered most of the lows life has dealt me. I can’t imagine my life without them.
I’ve been blessed with a group that not only has strength, but faith. They’ve picked me up when I’m down, and have been too understanding to tell me, “I told you so” when I make a mistake they’ve tried to talk me out of making.
Being a friend to someone is not easy, it takes work. Like any relationship, without hard work it will fade into the background of what I call life. There are times I wonder why they stick by my side, then it hits me. The bond I have with them is stronger than a harsh word, a lie, and the hate mail that follows a fight. My friends inspire me, comfort me, advise me, and love me. They’ve put my needs before their own, which is a rare trait, one that I myself rarely do.
I’m a better person because of these friends. Friendship is a gift that should be prized and protected, not taken for granted and dismissed. Every kind act by a friend should be cherished. Friends give you hope when you feel all is lost, cheer you up when your down, and smack you back into the real world when the fantasy becomes to obnoxious. It would be a lonely road without them by my side.
I’ve gotten more “second chances” with my friends than I deserve. Each mistake I make in a friendship brings me closer to being a better friend. I learn from friends. One of those friends is my rock. I believe in my heart God put her in my path, to save me from myself.
She took me under her wing and stood by my side every time I let her down. She’s amazing, she’s got a heart as big if not bigger than Texas, with a temper to match. If you’re lucky enough to have a friend that weathers the storms in the dark times, then catches the rays with you during the sunny times, say a prayer, not everyone is as lucky as you. I’m not the perfect friend by far, but what I’ve learned from my friends is the emotional depth of another human being is incredible. I’m a work in progress, thanks to my friends, my road will not be lonely. Edyie, Shannon, and Kim, I love you for not giving up on me when I wanted to give in.
