Picked up a random poetry book From the crowded shelf. Quick easy hour read: Delight and wonder. Then, Found…
Childhood Friendships=Blessings for all Time
What is the longest friendship you have with someone? What do you do with your friends? What special memories do you share together?
When I woke up to the sounds of three nine year olds cooking in the kitchen, and then, having them surprise me with breakfast in bed, joy struck my heart. I had at first been worried that they were making too much noise for my sleeping husband, but I stopped that thought and turned instead to the girls’ motive.
They were thoughtfully showing their appreciation to me for taking them swimming at our local YMCA last night. We had gone with forty-five minutes before the pool closed for the night, and they did not complain at the short time they had to actually swim. I let them stay up a while later than usual to play and watch an episode of Brain Games on Netflix before turning off the lights. Their giggles and kindness they showed each other when getting into bed reminded me about my own slumber party adventures so long ago.
Natalie and her two friends have known each other since they were all the sweet age of three. Now five years, later, we no longer live close to them, but I want Natalie to be able to continue her special bond with them as I had with my best friend Tiffany growing up. Their moms and I make a point to schedule play dates when we can fit it in. Despite how busy we all are with our own families and work, we want to give these girls time together.
Friendship is one part of our basic survival we need to bring fulfillment and happiness. Childhood friends help us prepare for relationships later in life.
“Friends are family members that we choose to allow and keep in our lives,” as Sarah Fuller, M.D., shares on psychologytoday.com. I totally agree. What about you?
“The philosopher Aristotle said, ‘In poverty and other misfortunes of life, true friends are a sure refuge. They keep the young out of mischief; they comfort and aid the old in their weakness, and they incite those in the prime of life to noble deeds,’” (Fuller).
I am thankful for my daughter’s friends who are always ecstatic when they get together. Between the crazy laughter, silly games , and made up play, these girls have a special relationship they will carry with them forever. Friendship is a blessing!
Bonus: Here is a list of ideas to do with your friends without spending too much money.
Reference:
Fuller, Sarah, M.D. (2017, Oct 2). “Why Do We Need Friends? Six Benefits of Healthy Friendships.” Psychology Today, Sussex Publishers. Retrieved from: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-is-state-mind/201710/why-do-we-need-friends-six-benefits-healthy-friendships.