In my posting “Some of this, some of that” of earlier today, I mentioned a friend in New Jersey. That started me thinking about friends and friendship, so of course I have to write about it.
Friends come into our lives in various ways – through work, social settings, social media or mutual interests to name four ways this happens. Obviously by “social media” I‘m referring to sites such as Facebook and other such sites. And yes, I’ve actually met some of the people on my Facebook friends list and count them among my dearest friends. And there is one lady, mentioned in “Some of this, some of that” who, because of some of our conversations, I do consider a friend in fact, not just on Facebook and am looking forward to meeting her some day. Ms M, keep that in mind 🙂
One lady I first met through a mutual friend on MySpace (remember MySpace?). We began chatting and arranged to meet one day at a Starbucks and have become good friends since. By the way Carol, coffee’s on me next time 🙂
I drove a cab for several years and some of the people I first met as passengers have become friends and even though I haven’t driven in seven years, we remain close.
Sometimes people enter our lives, become friends, then suddenly are gone again. My view is that we were brought together with these people for a specific purpose – either so they could influence us, or we, them – then, when the purpose is accomplished, they move on. Or their purpose is to introduce us to yet another person. Yet because they were a part of our lives for even a brief moment, both we and them are better people for having met. At least we hope they are better people for having known us. I’ve had that happen a couple of times and yes, I am a better person for having come under the influence of these people.
I treasure my friends, am honoured that they consider me a friend as well and am always flattered when they comment on something I’ve posted either here on WordPress as words or as images on Facebook. If you have close friends, friends you value, tell them so.
Now, enjoy your day, offer prayers and whatever support you can for the victims of Sandy and, remember to hug an artist – we need love (and friends) too.
Cat.