Been thinking a lot about the blessings of friends these last few days. And of how they fill one’s life at this age while one’s adult children are all busy and grandchildren around the country are growing at seeming warp speed. Thought about it while running around in another country with one group, laughing and exploring, ‘couple of weeks ago at the wedding. Thought about it Sunday when a tearful, near distraught friend and I sat on the fellowship sofa instead of going into our Sunday School class; I listened, she poured out her hurting heart over the relationship with her adult daughter. Thought about it while sitting with another group at lunch later that same day and during another lunch on another day last week with other friends. Now, that particular group was very special as was the friend, recently moved away but back for a few days, who came for breakfast this morning. As we sat just off the kitchen, curtains pulled wide to showcase that amazing huge tree in the front yard, it occurred to me just how long we’ve been having these talks. The depth of some friendships; some over 30 years old and others slightly newer. The one I talked to for over an hour on my way home last night who just lost her husband….one of those 30+ year friends. Then there’s the best friend from elementary school who’s been around now for…well, let me see….about 50 years. These are the folks who know it all, all your secrets and fears and doubts. They've shared your joys and confidences and the challenges you've faced.

There are the friends who’ve moved away over the years, only to guarantee guest rooms in most major cities now. There’s friends I’ve moved away from who come to stay in my guest room. There’s the one across the country who I go back to make Christmas gingerbread houses with each holiday. And on and on. Over my life I’ve gathered a symphony of siblings and even a few parental figures....we’ve created a “family of choice.” We’ve chosen each other to be and to call “family.” Just thinking about them all individually gives me such a warm feeling – perhaps that’s the feeling that goes with the word “blessed.” Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and along with family, I’ll be happy to see all those loved others with whom we’ll mark this holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my dear friends and family!