“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” (Ecclesiastes 4: 9,10)

There’s a great lure today as schedules get stretched and days are so filled, to sacrifice friendship for family and business. I love my work and my family, but my girlfriends – my sista’s – their friendships are very dear to me. I recognize that these women are God’s gifts designed especially for me. I don’t take these relationships frivolously as if our paths have just crossed accidentally. Rather than the likelihood of ‘luck’, I’ve been given the opportunity of friendship.

The decision to acknowledge this occasion; accept it, and build upon it, are completely mine, or yours for that matter.

[quote author=”- C. S. Lewis”]Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art…It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival.”[/quote]

It’s  also been said, “Life without friends would be like a mirror without reflection…empty and void of purpose.” You may be able to live without friendship, but surely that would be dreary. Over the years my life has been enriched and enhanced by remarkable women and their friendship, which is a proven treasure. They have been able to speak into my life and say what’s hard to be said; because it’s only your real friends that will tell you there’s something in your teeth.

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful” Proverbs 27:6 Loyalty has been the wrapping of this gift and when the ribbon of the parcel is pulled, the gift remains intact. The friend in my adversity is the one I treasure most. As a faithful friend you’ve sided with me even when it’s been out of favor to be my voice. “A friend loves at all times says the Lord of Hosts” Proverbs 17: 17. Over the years you’ve been my cheer and you’ve given more than most. Beyond any doubt you are something to behold, how wonderful you have been, you’re my friend.

Throughout our lives, we give and receive gifts. We remember each occasion like a special bouquet and recall the thoughtfulness of the giver. The flower of friendship blossoms and grows when tended most guardedly. Deliberately plant the seeds of friendship; make room for joy and sadness, and water well with understanding. Watch – the blooms will double, “ For two are better than one, because they have good reward for their toil” Ecclesiastes 4:9.

A Friendship Prayer

Thank you God, for sending me the riches of true friendship. My friend stays at my side when others have forsaken me. My friend is like You in that regard. Develop within me the fine qualities of a true friend and may my reflection mirror You; unselfish, lasting and true. Amen.