GOOD FRIENDS AND OLD TREES

GOOD FRIENDS AND BEAUTIFUL OLD TREES

The other day I was out walking Shannon's dog, Kashi, and I stopped by the home of a dear friend of mine whom I have known for about 26 years.  She happened to be home and kindly invited me in.  We have been friends for so long, that like family, even though you may not have spent much time together recently you simply sit down and start talking.  She had other things she was in the middle of, but no matter, she invited me into her oh so cozy family room for a sit-down on the "soft chairs and couch."

This old tree in the photo here is great, isn't it?  It is green, lush, and has beautiful contrast between green canopy and reddish-brown trunk which takes twists and turns in it's shape.  The canopy is rounded and soft looking, the trunk and branches more jutting and not so soft looking; the contrast making the totality of the tree more interesting and inviting. The tree has deep roots that go deep for support.  The greenery provide protective shade from a sun that can be harsh at times.

The picture of the tree reminded me of the wonders of friendships dear and sweet.  My friend and I sat and talked and talked and talked about just everything that came to mind, much of it centered around our families.  Each of us is probably a study in contrasts, like the tree; we provided shade and beauty, and deep roots to support each other.  Some parts of us are soft, some gnarled, our lives have taken twists and turns, but all in all we and our friendship combine for a beautiful thing. Time flew as we talked on and on and on, taking no heed to the "things" that were left undone as we opened up to one another; but we are old enough and wise enough to know what really matters in life.  I am so grateful for such dear and wonderful friends who feel even safer than biological family to me.  My life's garden is blessed with such people.  Thanks, Heavenly Father.