The heart of a woman is the compass used to navigate her life. Even a woman who can clearly see the logic in a situation knows better than to ignore the inner voice that so often defies logic. I honestly believe this trait provides us with clarity that allows us to more accurately discern both people and situations. How else could a woman so effectively nurture the spirit of her family and others who need her?? This is in addition to a 9-5 job and a mountain of other responsibilities.
I believe that God blesses us by placing people outside of our family in our lives to give us a special type of love and support. This is love that is given freely; not because we share the same blood. This is acceptance and respect for the woman she is. True friends fall into this category. These are the friends who will remain your friend through good times and bad times. They will laugh with you, and encourage you to laugh at yourself. They will cry with you and then go home and cry as they pray for you. During lean times, you will both go through your pantries and split the food to make it stretch until payday. There is no shame; just understanding. There is genuine joy when the friend reaches her goals and lives her dreams. There is no envy; just an enormous feeling of pride. When she makes a choice that you feel is not in her best interest, or is in a relationship that is obviously bad for her, you will respect that ultimately, the choice is hers. You will not judge your friend, you will simply be there for her, for as long as she needs you. You will keep her covered in prayer as she finds her way out of one of life's many valleys; just as she has done for you.
It takes a while for me to allow a person close enough to become a friend. Building a solid friendship is important enough for me to take time to get to know the person. To date, I have made one mistake; lesson learned.
There are five women in my life who I love as sisters. I have known them from five years to over thirty years. They range in age from mid 40's to mid 60's. They have not all met each other, and it is unlikely they would be close friends. Their personalities are different, but they share core values. Each of these women have lifelong friends who are a part of their lives. I have been blessed to have met three of their mothers. Apples really don't fall far from the tree.
These women are beautiful, intelligent, kind, giving, compassionate, loyal, confident, creative and funny. Are they complex? Of course; they are grown women!
They are my friends, and they are indeed priceless!!
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