We haven't made many friends in Virginia yet. There have been more urgent things on our To Do list, such as finding a place to live, finding a church, and sometimes just getting through the day. But these two very special people were waiting for us on the East Coast when we got here.
These two wonderful people go way back with us. Joe and Glenn were neighbors and best friends growing up, and the Best Man in each other's weddings. Joe and Glenn can get belly-laughing over the silliest childhood memories--it only takes a word before the two of them are hilarious over some inside joke.
Though we've been geographically distant for many years, we are now, for the first time in 20 years, just a quick flight or a road trip away from these two. Glenn and Alison's daughters live in Virginia so we will get to see them on a regular basis when they come to visit their girls. You can't imagine how incredibly happy this makes us. These two are kindred spirits. They really know us, yet love us anyway.
When we finally connected last week, I cried in both their arms. Their love, support and compassion have been steadfast. Alison cried with me and kissed my Joey tattoo on my arm. Her act of compassion touched my heart deeply. They listened and they really care and that means everything to us. After being with them, I felt new hope. The clouds of gloom parted and I got some sunshine into my soul.
When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving much advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a gentle and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares.
9 comments:
Thanks for sharing. It brought a smile to my face and a tear to my eye as I read. Sounds like they were just what you needed and in perfect time.
Love you,
Jeri
Friends such as they are more precious than silver and gold. What a treasure!
This blog made me so happy. I have my man home so life is good here to. I love the tattoo, when you mentioned the kiss I smiled! That is just what I do now with mine, kiss her name. Thats as close as I can get. Kisses from me to Joey as well.
lovin and prayin for you....I think it did some good. Sharon
I just discovered your blog... enjoying reading about your lovely son and his girlfriend's fabulous journey. what an inspiration. i live in richmond, va. welcome home, friends!
Glen Goldberg????
WOW!! What a blast from the past! Took me a minute to figure it out. What a blessing to have him back in your life bro! Amazing how God keeps little treasures in his pocket and presents them just at the right moment. This is the first time Ive had the overwhelming feeling that everything is going to be O.K. for you two. Nice call, Lord!!!
Love you. Brother Steve.
That just makes me :-)
love you!!!!
Dear Karen and Joe
So Happy for you both that the clouds have parted and you have found sunshine in your soul...So very sweet to have found that in a friendship that God has blessed you with
Love you miss you bunches!
OH that is so grand and sweet of her to kiss Joey. I want to give you a hug after that speech. You are a very lovable person which makes you the very best kind of friend. Lots of people know how to 'like' but not many know how to love and appreciate.
This is a perfect quote for me right now, and Henri N. is one of my favorites.
I am so grateful that you have these friends in your life.
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