She makes me laugh, like tears falling – trying to catch your breath laugh. This is one of the gifts a close friend of mine has in her arsenal. She can easily make you laugh, pretty much anywhere and at any time. Whether it’s a late night meme texted to you or bringing up crazy stories from the past – she’s got the talent of a seasoned comedian.
The funny thing is I don’t think she realizes how much of a gift bringing laughter to others is. She doesn’t know how many times the joy of laughing has saved me from wallowing in despair. It’s a refreshing distraction and undoubtedly God uses her to do just that, distract.
Many times our minds are so focused on serious things we forget to breathe. So receiving a timely sucker-punch of funny is much needed -- more times than not.
Don’t get me wrong, she knows how and when to be serious. But she’s learned to time those distractions just right.
My friend is also gifted with a heavy dose of empathy. She gives an earnest ear to listen and will sit on the couch with you for hours. She’s a good friend who doesn’t mind if you shed some tears or sit in silence.
She simply cares.
I often think about the gift of friends. Growing up, I didn’t have many friends. I was bullied and I often settled for friends who weren’t exactly good ones. There were times when I was blessed with one real friend and we would spend most of our days together. Then a boy would come along or another friend would take my place.
This would leave me feeling, well you know how…
As a grown-up, I’ve been blessed with several friends who have stuck around. The ones who love impromptu drop in’s, gathering for dinners, and watching our children grow as friends. Showering is optional and yoga pants are appropriate attire when together.
But laughing, it’s usually mandatory.
We don’t get upset if we haven’t heard from each other in a few days, because we all understand busy. But we do carve out time for each other, because we cherish the gift of friendship we’ve been given.
I know I’m a very spoiled girl who’s been blessed with real friends. The kind that stick around and make it work. So, I don’t take this for granted and I thank the good Lord every day for them.
That’s why I write these little love notes, so they know how much they mean to me.
If you have a close friend or two, make sure they know how much you love them – the true authentic version of themselves.
If you are lonely and in need of a friend, remember our Heavenly Father is always with you and loves you. Pray hard to cross paths with someone you can call a true friend.
That’s exactly how I meant mine.