The Magic of Friendship

"Friendship is born at the moment when one person says to another, 'What, you too? I thought I was the only one.'" - C. S. Lewis

As I returned home yesterday from a lunch date with my dear friend, Ann, I was inspired to write about the magic of friendship. Ann and I worked together several years ago and have kept in touch by phone and email since then. We only get together perhaps twice a year, but each time is magical. I have other friends that I see only rarely, and whenever we reconnect, it's like picking up where we left off. These are my eternal friends. It doesn't seem to matter how much physical contact we have -- when we reconnect, it's like no time has passed. I call these my eternal friends because our relationship seems to exist outside of space and time.

To me, a friend is someone you can tell anything to and know they will still like you. They might even like you more because of your honesty and courage. A friend is someone who never judges you - even when you stay in that miserable job, or keep going back to that dead-end relationship, or hang on to that unhealthy habit. A friend is someone who loves you just the way you are, always believes in you, offers support, and inspires you to be your best. Friends are those special ones who ask how you are and actually listen for the answer. A true friend is always there for you. And, best of all, with a true friend, you can relax and be yourself. You don't have to perform or pretend or try to impress. True friendship is comforting and nourishing. It makes you feel warm and safe and loved.

"When it hurts to look back, and you're scared to look ahead, you can look beside you and your best friend will be there." - anonymous

It is said that we are fortunate if we have even one true friend. I totally agree. Friendship is the greatest fortune. A poem from childhood has stayed with me all my life: "Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold." It's true. New friends, old friends, all friends are treasures more valuable than silver or gold. My life is filled with friends who are fun, enthusiastic, joyful, successful, adventurous and loving. I adore them. These wise and wonderful friends are my greatest treasure.

Want to feel good fast? Make a list of all the treasured friends you have in your life and feel how much you appreciate them. Friends can include a spouse, a parent, a sibling, even a pet. My dog, Madeleine, with her unconditional love and joyous, playful spirit, is certainly on my list. I know someone whose best friend is her horse. I love that! Many of my dear friends I have never even met. We are phone and email buddies only so far. The only requirement for friendship is the heart to heart connection you feel with them. After you make your list and you're feeling all cozy inside, make a decision to connect with at least one of these fabulous friends every day and tell them how much you love and appreciate them. As you love and appreciate your friends, you are savoring one of life's greatest joys - the Magic of Friendship!