She lives nearby and we used to spend a great deal of time together. She's an artist and we painted and laughed and talked and cried in each others company, sometimes in each others arms. She was my best friend for a decade and longer. Its odd how changes in our lives can slowly pull people apart. Back then I would have never believed there would come a time when we would loose communication altogether.
But it happened. Do you have dear friends with whom this has happened to you too?
I was busy when the card arrived. I made a mental note to contact her after the holidays. When I removed the hanging cards from around my doorway, I set hers aside as a reminder to call. I did. I reached the answering machine. Several days passed and yesterday I received a call back from her.
Funny how time apart disappears when friends reconnect.
So much to catch up on! We couldn't stop talking. Next week we are meeting for lunch. I suspect it will be a long lunch...
Just yesterday as well, Josh called telling me of an old grade-school friend who emailed him out of the blue. His friend was in Iraq. I wondered what made him think of Josh, being so far away. He must be lonely. He must miss home. How wonderful it was that when he found comfort in his thoughts, it was about time spent with Josh... Josh hasn't seen him in years. Now he can't wait until his friend returns so he can visit with him.
I don't know what jars people to reach out to old friends, but I'm thankful it happens. It warms the heart and puts a smile on our face. The first thing my friend said to me over the phone after saying my name was, "Oh, I really missed that laugh!" I wish next week's lunch date was today...
