After writing in silence yesterday, the stranger across the table from me began to talk. Abdul has been here nine months from Afghanistan. He is an artist and runs a small gallery across the street from Tully’s. He is teaching art classes (oils, water colors, etc.) at the studio and is now beginning to go to people’s homes to teach art to homeschooled children. He is also writing a book about his personal story in Afghanistan, his progression in art and pictures of his work and its history. Though his English was broken, his smile was bright with hope in the promise of the American dream. Since he is here nearly daily, I’m sure I’ll find out more about his fascinating story and this interesting little man.
Across from us sat a large table of about 10 men, all in the 70 age range. They were having so much fun and it was obvious that these men were very good friends. After observing them for about an hour or so, I couldn’t handle it any longer. I just HAD to talk to them and find out their story. So introduced myself and shamelessly asked what their history was, because it looked like they were having more fun than should even be possible in this little coffee shop.
Well, they brought me (literally) right into their circle and began introducing themselves and telling me that they have been meeting at that very table every Wednesday for the past 10 years. They attend sporting events together and just get together to laugh and muse over life. It struck a sentimental chord with me, these dear friends who have undoubtedly weathered storms and shared victories and the little joys of life.
The contrast in these two encounters was fairly stark. A single man from a foreign land sitting alone. Just beginning in this place, with no history here. No deep friendships. Far away from his homeland. And in the same room, a group of 10 men with history and friendship. Connections that make life a little sweeter and burdens a little lighter.
Last night I shared the beautiful company of a dear friend at dinner. Though our friendship can be measured in mere months, we have found profound common ground that has rooted us deeply and quickly. As I sit here now, I am awaiting the arrival of another friend who is meeting me for coffee. Once again, a woman who shares a love for Jesus and all things artistic so that our conversations easily melt into hours of lost, but well spent, time.
I’m once again thankful beyond words for the presence of friends in my life. Old friends and new. Local and long distance friends. Friends that make me laugh and friends that let me cry. Friends that I am lucky enough to call family. Friends who listen and friends who talk straight to me. Companionship, accountability, support, listening ears come in every shape and size and age. And every single one of them, in their own unique way, is beautiful beyond description to me.
Jesus, thank you. Thank you for friends that love when it’s not easy and look past what should turn them away. Thank you for friends who encourage and cheer me on, whose selfless acts of kindness inspire and motivate and humble. Help me to never, ever take any precious moment spent with them for granted. Help me to savor their words and to listen intently to every syllable. Teach me how to reciprocate beyond what I’ve been shown.
And Jesus, about YOUR friendship. Thank YOU, most of all. Present at all times. Always an ear, a shoulder, a hug. My greatest encourager, supporter, believer, teammate. You tell it to me straight and whisper to me gently. You cry and laugh and sing with me. You share your ideas with me and allow me to write it out as we process together. You know everything about me. We have a long history. And for some very strange reason, you still call me friend.
And THAT, today (back in my faux leather chair) makes me content to my core and thankful to my toes.
John 15:15 – Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.
Revelation 3:20 – Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.
Philippians 2:1-2 – If therefore there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.
