This generation calls them besties or BFFs. I call them Teri and Jeneal. The tried and true. My best friends for nearly 28 and 23 years respectively (Teri on the left, Jeneal on the right).
Lucky for us, we got to spend a day together this past week. That’s no small feat, given the fact that Jeneal moved away over fifteen years ago and currently lives around seven hours away. Since she was going to be visiting about three hours from here, we decided to meet up for a visit. And am I ever glad we did.
It’s not very often I get to hang out with both best friends at the same time. You see, Teri and Jeneal are friends mainly through their friendship with me. I’m the link they have in common. So when the three of us can actually all get together, that’s a special treat.
These gals mean more than the world to me. One or the other or both have been with me, either in person or in spirit, through everything from pregnancy to mother-of-the-bride-hood.
They’ve stood beside me in times of grief and in times of great joy. They’ve gotten downright silly with me and given me the wonderful gift of shared laughter. (Barnes & Noble is still trying to recover from our visit to their store the other day! :)) They’ve also cheered me on as I’ve tackled new chapters of my life, and they’ve been among my best supporters where my writing is concerned.
And they don’t go away. No matter where we live, we stay in touch and know that the support, the love, and the friendship is always there. Yes, they are the tried and true.
I pray that you have some tried and true friends in your life, too, for they are truly some of the most valuable treasures you’ll ever be able to call your own. If you’re too young to have developed these kinds of relationships yet, be patient. They will come as you begin to invest in a few special friendships. And take it from me, the investment’s worth it.
So go ahead. Go invest with your BFF. Go have fun with your bestie. Celebrate your tried and true!
“…there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24b
*Have you celebrated lately with your tried and true? Any plans on the horizon? I’d love to hear about it!
Hi Cheryl,
Oh, thank GOD for BFF’s! I’m so grateful for the friends in my life–literally could not make it without them and thank God regularly for them!
I’m so glad you had the opportunity to hang out with your besties! Looks like you had fun. :-)
Hey friend…
So glad for those who encourage us along the way, especially our inner circle of friends. I have a couple as well, although we all live very far apart.
Stay encouraged with your writing. I’m about to go pitch an idea at a writer’s conference, so I’m buckling up for the ride ahead. Your so faithful to keep the pen going; may God bless every word that you write with his strong validation!
peace~elaine
Great photo of you three girls!
Thanks, Elaine, for the words of encouragement — much appreciated. And Kristin, thanks for calling us girls :) Makes me feel young! :)
Good girlfriends really make the world go ’round. How nice that you were all able to get together. My BFFs live 5 & 6 hours away, respectively. :)
Kirsten, tough luck having both of your BFFs so far away. I’m lucky to at least still live in the same town as one of mine. I hope you get to spend time with your girlfriends soon!