Friend
is a multifaceted word. I have a number of friends. Some are people I really
like and wish I could see more of. Some are acquaintances whom I enjoy being
with but never seek more time with. There are people I met later in life with
whom I am very close and see frequently. Then there are those I have a lifetime
history with.
Recently,
I had the chance to spend a whole week with two women I have a lifetime history
with. This happens so rarely because we literally live in three different parts
of the country.
So
what makes a lifetime friend? There are several people I have known just as
long in years. I have affection for all of them but the bond with these two
remains unique. It has to do with immediate comfort. It has to do with feeling
safe. Shared history, yes but more than that, a shared sensibility. It has to
do with sharing secrets, knowing old secrets, being who you are with no
judgement. It has to do with picking up exactly where you left off. Instantly.
How
is this possible? I really don’t know. If I am guessing, we have all
experienced this with maybe a handful of people in our lives. I remember my
incredibly wise mother saying, “If you can count true friends on the fingers of
one hand, you are lucky.”
It’s a mystery and a gift and I am grateful.
I
