On Friendship

So yesterday we celebrated my good friend Bridgette’s birthday, and it got me thinking about one of the greatest, simplest pleasures God’s give us. Friendship. So I thought I’d write a little bit of what drew me to her and why I feel like her life has been such a blessing to me personally.

I met Bridgette in one of our graduate courses. In a sea of midwestern “blah” she stood out in this baby pink coat and almost platinum blonde hair. I knew instantly I had to know her. We ended up in a group project together, and I was so impressed with how she handled herself with the other members (group work being notorious for freeloaders, etc). I somehow talked her into hanging out with me, and now I look back on 10+ years of friendship. Things I’ve learned from her.

1. Don’t let a good thing go

My friend fights for things she knows are valuable, even if they are hard. I’m much more of a “I’m taking my ball and going home” quitter, but I’ve learned to admire her fortitude. Even when relationships seem to hit a dead end, or a situation appears from the outset to be un-redeemable, she feels the good within the situation and keeps on pursuing it. I admire this immensely, and I have to say it’s one of the reasons she’s built such a loving foundation within her family. Don’t give up on good things, fight for them.

2. Be direct

This is hard for a midwestern like me, but Bridgette doesn’t sweep things under the rug. If she feels or senses something or someone is drifting away from her, she confronts it. Not in an accusatory way, but in a loving one. I have to say this tool is something I continually struggle with, it’s much easier to be passive-aggressive. But again, she loves hard, and she doesn’t want to risk losing what’s precious to her. Seen in this way, it makes it easier to confront the behavior, etc. that’s bothering us, without feeling insecure.

3. Laugh

She’s one of the funniest people I know. She always has a great story or tale to tell, all of it hilarious. Even when things aren’t going her way, she spins it into a bright story for laughs. And when times are tough, it’s more of an excuse to let loose and laugh a little. Her lighthearted spirit is what draws me to her when clouds surround my own life.

4. Be open spiritually

This is another way of saying, she’s my spiritual guru! I feel I can ask her any question about God, faith, death, ANYTHING, and she won’t judge me for it. She’ll give me her honest feedback, and if she needs to think about it and get back to me, she will. I love this about her! It’s like having my own personal spiritual guide . . .  because it is!

God puts people in your life for you to learn from. I’m so grateful one of the people he put in my path is this special friend. I’m so grateful for her friendship. I’ve learned so much from her, and I keep learning every day from her formidable spirit. Here’s to you, mama! Happy Birthday!