Old Friends

How often do you think of contacting that highschool friend, but you never get to it? Oh, sure, we can easily send messages and chat online with people we haven't seen, but to actually get together?

This past weekend, I spent a whole night talking with one of my best friends. Despite the fact that we've not had alone time together in over 20 years, we started talking and didn't stop. No awkwardness, no hesitation, we just jumped right back in where we left off. In our case, distance has a great deal to do with the lack of contact, but we both agreed that just knowing the other was there and would move heaven and earth if the other needed us was a comfort even when we weren't in contact.

Because of the distance, we rented a hotel room in a city between where she lives and my home. It was a good idea - nobody had to be the "host", and there was nothing to do that distracted from our visit. The day began with tears of joy,but quickly transformed into our usual laughter and the closeness that you only feel with your very dearest friends, who know you inside and out, and whom you can trust with your deepest secrets.

We parted knowing that it will not be another 20 years before we again spend time together. Time is too short and life too precious, and besides, we had 'way too much fun!

Days like that are rare jewels, but we owe them to ourselves. They rejuvenate us. They remind us of where we've been and how much that has made us who we are. It is wonderful to remember the girl I once was, as I embark on this journey of discovery of who I am now, and to realize that girl's still here - she's just an improved version.