Friends....

I have been a lucky person. My life has been rich and full and joyful. I can say that and mean it, even though I have had my share of sorrow. For I have the secret to happiness, and it's friends. Friends like you.

For reasons I don't understand, there is always some measure of good in my world. Before the internet, it was a letter arriving in the mail, or a phone call, or a happenstance meeting in the grocery store or on the street. My friends are always there for me, as I am always there for you.

Since the internet has come along and changed our lives, you have found me sitting alone at home, wishing someone knew how I am feeling. And you must know, because you always know when to send me something uplifting to raise my spirits, or something silly to make me laugh and forget the funk I was in.

You send me little bits and pieces of beauty and joy, in the form of glorious photos and/or inspiring words. I have no idea how you know just exactly what I need and when I need it, but you do. You send me things that give me reason to pause and examine how I am feeling, or how I am looking at things in my life.

You help me see things as they really are: the glass is half full, not half empty. Life is valuable for the simplest reasons. And those with the greatest needs are usually the ones who can see that best....

The last time I saw you, we both knew I wouldn't be back. You were well on your way to recovering from your illness and you didn't need to see a home health nurse again. And we both didn't want our friendship, forged of your needs and strengths, to end.

And so, we exchanged email addresses. I want you to know that there are only two patients I have shared that information with, and you were the first. It seemed so simple, we could “talk” to each other, once in awhile, and keep in touch. I had no idea it would be so much more.

Your messages lift my spirits. I have to smile when you tell me you enjoy reading my blogs. It's nice to know that they are entertaining you, in some small way. I hope you continue to enjoy them and more importantly, I hope you continue to send me your uplifting email messages.

I am grateful to have met you, and to have become your friend. And yes, I'll bet you've guessed by now:

This one's for you, Hazel!