a note

dear girls my heart tugs tonight on the importance of friendships, of choosing friends, of loving and caring for friends. i can't say there is a step by step program or even an adequate equation that make sense when it comes to friendships. i can't guarantee you won't feel hurt or saddened by those you choose to stand beside you. but if you choose well, i can say they will be a tremendous blessing to you, they will walk your journeys with you, they won't be able to carry your burdens or joys but they will listen to you and challenge you, rejoice with you and weep with you. when you choose a friend, find someone who speaks kindly of others even if they don't know them. watch for someone who isn't afraid for the girl in corner with skin problems, who talks to her effortlessly and is genuinely interested in her days at school. keep your ears open for the one who speaks negatively and unkindly of passerbyers, guard your heart against them, they will also speak unkindly of you. but remember this does not give you permission to speak unkindly of them. look for the one who smiles, who counts their blessings and finds ways to give thanks in all things. they are wise. beware of those who mock and snicker, you could ask that the Lord softens their hearts. watch for the ones who are willing to stand up for others, they will stand firm by your side. it is a rare and beautiful thing, a true friend, someone you can really say you love...please don't tell everyone you love them, know the importance of the word and share it when it is earned and respected. it is a blessing to have someone by your side, someone who will share their candy with you, play dinosaurs with you, listen to your heart and challenge you in the ways of the Lord. this will also build your character. it is a treasure to find someone who will jump with you in your excitements and encourage your progresses while walking through life with you. in return, you ought to be the friend you are looking for. love well, be kind to every person, never say unkind words or thoughts towards anyone. give thanks even when your heart feels heavy, offer grace to those who may not deserve it, i am not sure anyone deserves it. listen when anothers heart is being shared, reach out a hand for someone to hold onto. be the first to seek out someone in need, someone different, someone lovely. if we remember that we all belong to the Father that we are all made in His image, then there should be no boundary that keeps us from being so very kind to others. when difficulties arise, take a deep breath, have confidence in the Lord that He will give you the tools, the grace and the love to walk together. my prayer is that you would surround yourselves with people who uplift you, who challenge and strengthen you in the Lord, who push you toward beauty. that you would uplift, challenge and strengthen others, pushing them toward beauty. these are my thoughts on this rainy november night.