My Best Friend

I am blessed. I have a friend. Her name is Marian. And she is the best friend a person could ask for. I met Marian our very first moment of college. Almost 27 years ago. And we have been best friends ever since. After college, Marian stayed in the city and became a very successful career woman in a field so perfect for her. She helps people. I came home and settled in the country as a teacher, then wife and mother. Yet, our friendship remained. Marian is the friend I pray each of my children will find. The friend that remains in your life forever...through the good and the bad. Marian has laughed with me, cried with me, celebrated with me, supported me and consoled me. She was a bridesmaid in my wedding. She is my firstborn's Godmother. She has been with me for baptisms, birthdays, holidays, and recently, my dear father's funeral. When my father passed, Madison immediately ran and called Aunt Marian. And she came. Seeing her walk up the stairs as I prepared to go to my father's wake immediately made me feel better...safe and strong.

Marian and I have watched Big Brother together every summer  for the past 14 summers, even though we are miles apart. Sometimes we text...sometimes we talk on the phone. Sometimes we go weeks without talking, as life gets in the way. But we pick up exactly where we left off. She knows what I am trying to say before I say it. She helps me see situations from the entire perspective, and helps me deal with them. She loves my family as her own. She knows me. And still loves me. : )

I often feel as if she does and is so much more for me than I could ever hope to be and do for her. When she was leaving this past weekend, I hugged her and thanked her for coming. I told her I knew she had a whole life waiting for her back at home. And she told me I was the most important part. I don't know that I deserve a friend like Marian, but I thank God everyday that I have her in my life. I hope she knows that. You do, right Mar? : )

My best friend forever...Marian. : )