Friends

According to one definition, a friend is a person with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, typically exclusive of sexual or family relations. That is true enough, but that obviously does not always apply, depending on the circumstances. My husband is my friend. When my parents were still living, we were friends. I consider my three sons my friends. I am also lucky enough to have male and female friends as well.

If you confide in a friend, your confidences should be respected. That is the plus side. The negative side is that they will give you their unvarnished opinions whether you want to hear them or not. Plus, they should always have your best interests at heart. You may not always think this is true at the time when they hit you with their viewpoint, but it levels the playing field of your emotional landscape.

Over the years, I have been blessed with the best of friends and the worst of friends. I know what you are thinking. How can you possibly be blessed with the worst of friends? Because it makes you appreciate the good ones even more! You know that phrase no one is perfect? While accurate, a true friend will always point that out, even when you think they are way off base. I try to convey that in my Samantha Jamison mysteries. A true friend really is priceless. Eye rolls included!

A true friend will intuitively know when it is time to back off or intercede without even being asked. They will stand by you emotionally and physically, long distance and within a hand’s touch. That emotional support is the life sustaining substance that helps us thrive and grow as human beings.

Consider yourself lucky to have several true friends, but also consider yourself just as lucky to have one true one. The number is insignificant. It is their trueness, veracity, support and the comfort zone you should cherish. It’s like going home on a cold, rainy day to a welcoming, warm fire greeting you, a nonjudgmental hug of warmth and understanding.

When you lose a friend to death, the loss can feel insurmountable. There is this black void, a certain comfort zone that is no longer there, a familiar slot you securely fell into for guidance, emotional support and some good common sense advice that suddenly has vaporized into thin air.

This is breast cancer awareness month. My mother had breast cancer, as have many others I have loved and known over the years. Some are no longer here, but because of testing, options for surgery, and keeping everyone informed about how important it is to spread the word, many are still here to celebrate life, family and friends.

Celebrate life. Celebrate friends. Don’t take either for granted.

Chase your dreams and remember everyday is a blessing!