The Gift of Friendship

May 5, 2012

Friendship is communicated in so many ways.

In this season, where I feel alone in this journey of adventure and am having to grow and stretch outside my comfort zone in so many ways, I treasure these gifts.

I treasure you.

A box of books in the mail. Along with a lovely note.

A handknit toque I wasn't expecting, but needed for spring hiking and backpacking (I've been borrowing Céline's).

"I've got a book to lend you," e-mails in my inbox.

Maple syrup from the neighbors. 30 lbs of tomatoes. An impromptu dinner invite. Then another and another.

A friend who "listens" over e-mail, as a I pour out my fears. And she understands. Truly gets it because she lives it too. And she doesn't say "you're crazy" or "I could never do that" or "that must be so hard" (which would cast more doubt in my already fearful heart) but "you can do this Renee".

"Come visit us in Montréal."

An non-resident library card, purchased on our behalf, so we can e-lend more books. Can never have enough books!

Talking on the phone with a friend I met here at FIMBY who lives far away, but in the part of this country where I was born and bred (that prairie sky and soil is in my bones). A friend I've never met but someone I connect with deeply on all that matters most to me - my faith and family.

A place to stay, on a lake, by the mountains on a future trip to Maine. An invite from perfect strangers.

So many gifts. I'm sorry if I've missed yours in this list.