Isn’t it wonderful when you find the others that make up your soul tribe? These are the people who stay by your side no matter what. These devoted souls are rare and irreplaceable, but in my experience, we don’t really know who they are until we grow up and get older. The length of time and experiences shared, help to prove the bond and loyalty of your relationship. Some of us are lucky and have wonderful relationships with our parents and family, these are usually the first folks to fit the description of dependability.
My Auntie Max told me when I was very young. “In life, you will be lucky if you have 5 friends who you can count on.” she said as she held up her hand. “And most people never are lucky enough to have that many.” The older I get, the more I think it is true. Not everyone, who is your friend, is going to fit the description of completely loyal and dependable. But when we find them, it’s up to us to return the trust and devotion to keep that relationship strong.
I met my best friend in middle school, she is one of the people I can count on. My mom got married when I was thirteen and we moved from northern Minnesota to a Twin Cities suburb the year I was in 7th grade. I started my new school, the first day back from Christmas vacation, smack dab in the middle of the year. I walked into art class as the new kid and I was unsure where I should sit. As I stood there, scoping out the possibilities, I heard; “Hey! Hey new girl! Come sit over here.” My heart swelled with gratitude at the kindness this blue-eyed girl had shown by inviting me to their table.
That girl, who welcomed me with kindness, had also been new to the school at the beginning of that same year. She knew what it felt like to be the new kid and not know anybody so, she offered me her alliance. I asked her name. Meagan was twelve with puffy bangs, spunky and super funny. Little did I know that meeting her that day in the seventh grade was truly a blessing from the Higher Powers. Meagan and I have been best friends going on thirty years now. I consider her my soul sister and part of our family.
We have gone through all sorts of life experiences together; and for it have a wonderful bond that neither of us would ever want to be without. We looked out for each other and we had a blast growing up together. When I became pregnant in high school, Meagan always stood by me. She was my personal cheerleader and helped me get through some very emotional times. After I had my daughter, we lived very different lives and drifted apart for a bit. But, no matter how different our lives looked, Meagan was always there if I needed her.
I knew she was just a phone call and short drive away. She was a teenager with wheels; while I was perfectly content to stay home and do the mommy thing with my beautiful baby. She still would swing by to visit my daughter and I, before she went out at night. She still knows how to make me laugh when I am down. Even though our paths differed a bit, we didn’t let our varying lives change our friendship. Meagan and I know that we are there for each other no matter what. What a blessing to have such a faithful friend!
As we grow older, it becomes easier to pick out the qualities of people who are loyal friends. I like to give others the benefit of the doubt and trust they are who they say they are. I let their actions speak to their reliability. When you can’t physically be there, I’ve learned it is still important to check in and show you care.
During the ups and downs of life, the people you lean on varies with different situations. That’s why it’s important to me to be part of a kind and caring community of friends and family. I am also fortunate to have a family full of allies. When we are lucky enough to find those that show up when life gets real, it’s important to let them know how much you appreciate it. I just thought I’d share this reminder to value those irreplaceable people in our lives. And give thanks to the higher power for sending their support your way.
*Photo taken at our friends wedding reception with other great friends from high school. I have my best friend in a playful squeeze because I just love her so darn much! 😜
Thanks for reading my blog today.
With love,
Emy Minzel ~ Adventure Sister
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Emy Minzel 