Friendship

Good Monday Morning!

I hope you had a successful week and remembered to take time over the weekend to rest. Sometimes rest is a solitary activity, while other times the best respite is to spend time with friends who get us. Maybe we’re engaged in a serious conversation. Perhaps we enjoy hobbies or crafts. And, what about communing in nature on hikes, camping, or visiting a local arboretum or reserve. These activities are essential not only to our self-care and peace of mind, but they also help bring balance our social wellbeing.

These thoughts from William Shakespeare capture the essence of friendship at its finest:

Let’s take a look at the various elements of Shakespeare’s words. Are we courageous and vulnerable enough to allow someone to know us? I mean, really know who we are inside, at our core, blemishes and all. We need first to look at ourselves and reflect on the truths as I shared last week. It’s a risk, for sure, but maybe we should be brave enough to let someone into our well-protected places.

I have a good friend whom I’ve known for 38+ years (yes, I’m dating myself, and yes, she was just a child when we met – you’re welcome, friend!). She has been through it all with me. The good times, the embarrassing times, the it-hurts-so-bad-I’m-going-to-die times. We’ve been through seasons of non-communication for one reason or another, but we always return to the exquisite joy of sharing our lives. I have a couple of other friends who share the same sense of family that only profound friendships understand even though we haven’t known each other for as long. You know who you are, and you know how dearly I care for each of you.

Often we’re fearful that someone won’t like us or approve of past behavior or circumstances. A true friend accepts that we have a past that doesn’t necessarily define us. We may have made mistakes, experienced lapses in judgment, surrounded ourselves with unhealthy people or recovered from addiction or trauma. We take risks when we share these events with people. As we navigate a friendship, we learn about judgment. There’s no rush in sharing information, so take advantage of time in getting to know a new friend.

Intentional vulnerability leads to an opportunity for acceptance. A really good friend sees us in ways that give us the courage to explore the current state of our existence. These friendships lead to encouragement and the space to grow. It’s fortunate to have someone in our lives who knows the unpleasant details, as well as the victories, and who gently supports our wanderings and wonderings. It’s a special kind of growth shared among close friends.

Here are some passages from Scripture about friends:

“Some friends don’t help, but a true friend is closer than your own family.” Proverbs 18:24 (CEV)

“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father.” John 15:13 (MSG)

I don’t know where you are in your friendship journey. I hope that you have the opportunity to become safe enough and feel courageous in the pursuit. Maybe this week is an excellent time to let your closest friends know how very much you appreciate them. I genuinely hope someone reaches out to you to let you know how much you mean to them!

Have a wonderful week acknowledging your friends and how much they’re loved and appreciated!

Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda