I did not find my friends...

I am grateful for a lot of things, because God has filled my life with more blessings than I could ever deserve. But today, I am especially grateful for my friends.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "I did not find my friends; the good God gave them to me." What a beautiful reminder that the cherished friendships in my life came directly from the hand of God. Because of God's goodness, I am able to experience his unconditional love, grace, forgiveness, encouragement and joy in a tangible, human form.

God, in his infinite wisdom, also knows the exact right people and right timing to place my friends in my life. Although things have been tracking wonderfully here in New York, and I'm right where I want to be, I've had a bit of a sinking spell over the last couple weeks. God's perfect provision knew what I needed, though, and he sent me Erin and Jennifer this weekend. :) We've had it planned for a long time, but I had no idea how much I would need to see them this very weekend.

And what a joy it was!! I have loved my time in New York for the new experiences, new friendships, new opportunities, but sometimes it is just so sweet to have a taste of the old and familiar. Erin, Jen and I got to spend a few short days together...we did a little shopping, a lot of eating, and even more talking and catching up. I was overwhelmed by God's goodness to me that he demonstrated to me through them - two caring, wise friends who provided the exact encouragement I needed at the exact right time. We had a wonderful weekend in the city, and I am sad to see them go.

So this is my tribute to my friends...not just Erin and Jen, but to all of you - old and new friends; friends from Atlanta, New York and other places; friends I email with, friends I play phone tag with, friends who send me snail mail; friends who make me laugh and friends who comfort me when I cry...As my Facebook profile (haha) says, "I have the wisest, kindest, most encouraging friends who show me glimpses of the Lord's character everyday."

Thank you for being my friend.

"Two are better than one because then they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up...And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart."
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10,12