Yesterday a friend called, she was going through a frustrating time and needed someone to vent to, someone she could unravel her feelings with, someone safe who would support her and not judge.  She needed a friend. She apologized for bothering me at the end of the call, but honestly, I was happy she had called, and we could share time because she has been there for me. Because of her presence I have a lovely memory of us sitting outside on my front steps this past summer with my dog Abby the night before she took the rainbow bridge.  There was an otherworldly feel to that moment, there was peace.  My friend and I had stopped chatting and I looked at Abby, she was so content, so absorbed in the moment, just being was enough.  This memory has brought me comfort beyond any words could. A moment in time just sharing being here on this earth together, just being.

In our world we are expected to do, to produce, to become, to grow.  To have a moment just to be -surrounded by those we love is such a gift. To have relationships whether it is family, friend, or pet where we can express love and appreciation for each other even in silence is priceless.

The holidays pressure us to buy and give gifts as the only token of our love for each other.  Gifts of the soul- giving space, silence, nonjudgement, being are just as sacred if not more. Giving someone a memory, a laugh, a hug they can hold onto when they move through life is a gift worth giving.

I am so grateful for all of my friends, each providing me with an opportunity to receive love and give love. Friendship is indeed the best gift of all.