I had a wonderful birthday last week  because of the very dear friends that made sure to let me know how much they each cared about me. It poured in through the phone, postings on Facebook, in person, as well as cards and gifts in the mail.

It made me realize how deeply blessed I am with each friendship. I have always believed in the quality of friends verses the quanity. Each of the people I count as a friend are true and honest people. They care deeply and love with their heart.

The blessing of real friendship is the grit that holds me together through the rough waters of life. Over the years my friends more than family have sustained me during the darkest hours. They have been the ones who reach out and help pull me along when the going gets rough. They remind me to stop fighting the current and just flip over on my back, look at the sky, breathe and float with it. They help me remember that things won't always be turbulent. 

They gently show me that life goes on, ready or not, and there is nothing we can do but shut up and hang on as it speeds away from what was and barrels toward the future unknown.

I give thanks for each of them and their unwavering love and support during the good and not so good times. You each are the glue that holds me together and remind me to have hope for the future.