When confronted with awesome circumstances, who
might you seek, for that sense of reassurance? While society
seems to be spinning at a perfect rate, and your universe is
swirling with confusion and unbearable adversity, where
might you look to locate a means of stability? Then, just
when you think you have reached your limit, and your course
is so obscuredwith agonizing details, who functions as that
accurate compass to take you to a place of serenity? As I
write this, I am prompted to reflect on a few such situations
in my life. I am forced to bring to mind, many encounters
that have demanded careful consideration, and exceptional
advice. During tempests like these, I can think of just one
mortal individual who can rescue me, "My Friend."
A friend to me symbolizes so much. The qualities
they possess, far too significant to ever be dismissed. A true
friend is far more valuable than rubies, diamonds or any fine
gold. Friendship is an eternal bond that cannot be daunted
by trivial details, misread conversation or meager discomforts.
Friendship, entered into by two people, is a solemn union
that endures the abuse that this life inflicts upon us. A friend
to me is honest, trustworthy, caring and unselfish.A friend
would go out of his/her way, give till it hurts and love
unconditionally. I think this is the sort of person we each
crave, to be a friend.
I consider myself fortunate to have people with
these characteristics in my life. I am humbled as I recollect
the sacrifices that my friends have made for the likes of me.
On countless occasions, I was less than appreciative of
their efforts and advice. I am able to account for several
instances where I ignored their insight and belittled their
wisdom. To say that I behaved intelligently would be a lie.
To relay that I was acting in my best interest would also be
false. To admit that I was wrong and confess my stubbornness,
might paint a more authentic picture of my disrespect. The
uplifting aspect of it all, is that my friends looked right past
my inability to discern right from wrong, picked me up and
carried me through those deep trenches of pain and
disorientation. Those dear people, I proudly call my friends.
My journey thus far has acquainted me
with a multitude of people. I have met people of different,
nationalities, races, religions and languages. Lucky for me, I
am a people person. I love to meet new people, hear about
their cultures, share in their experiences. I also like to share
my background, hoping to comfort or benefit those searching
for friendship. My life over the past four years has compelled
me to explore other avenues of meeting people. Many of
them I have found right here, at my computer, via the
Internet. I've been blessed to connect with so many
wonderful individuals, many of whom I refer to as my friends.
Through Multiple Sclerosis, I have formed bonds that I feel
to be lasting. I've been able to share concerns and burdens
with others who were more than accepting of me and eager
to assist. I have learnedthat friendship is a universal
fundamental. It is an ingredient that all humans, omitting
race, culture or gender requires, to lead a fulfilling life.
Do you know what blows my mind?
Friendship doesn't have to exist merely among those around
us. When we think about our friends, naturally we are provoked
to envision the friends we know personally or communicate
with, in the flesh. We allude to individuals that we visit with,
on a regular basis. The exciting knowledge, which has
grabbed me, is that friendships can be formed defying distance.
I have come to appreciate, the gap of oceans and lands, which
separate people can be successfully bridged by friendship.
I am so thankful for my friends abroad. To me, although we
have never met, they too are a critical part of my everyday survival.
My advice, little as it may be, don't ever take
friends for granted. Take every opportunity to acknowledge them,
crediting them for their essential role in your life. Take a moment
today to call them, email them, write them or yes, visit them. We
are placed on this earth to live, learn and love. How difficult would
this be without friends? In those situations when turmoil clouds your
judgement, trust a friend to guide you to safety. When the day
seems so lonely and dark, call on a friend to illuminate the way.
Don't ever shoulder difficulty alone, trust a friend to help carry the
load. Always, always, always recognize that friendship is "A Bridge
Spanning Incredible Distance." We must realize this in its literal
context, but also acknowledging the distance that we create within
ourselves. Whatever this gap may be, allow your friendships to
infuse a bridge, to an overflowing well of tranquility.
Note: Since my husband's cancer surgery 4/25/05, this book content has been integrated into the public speaking content for audiences interested in a sassy approach to personal and/or community awareness events. Another chapbook on intimate love poet
He Keeps Me is a devotional journey of revelation and insight birthed out of prayer.Searching the Word of God revealed the many ways that He has kept me and continues to keep me. Each day is an opportunity to recognize that God is mindful of you, eve
