Some people come into our lives and stay for a lifetime. Some are part of the journey for only a short time. Others are like ships passing in the night – to be seen once and never seen again. I am blessed to have a number of life-time friends whose ships often stop in the harbor of life.

For me, life-time friends are jewels that come into my life unexpectedly – and stay to add sparkle and light. There is often an immediate bond – an understanding of unspoken and yet to be discovered interests, humor, fun and friendship. In the process of discovering who this person is, the bond is strengthened and the connection grows.

With those people who become life-time friends we have a very special connection. Time or distance doesn’t alter that. It is as if there are mind, heart and soul ties that exist easily, automatically and genuinely. There is sense of being real, open, and honest in both serious conversations and in fun. We can relax with each other and be ourselves without judgment or criticism – and with acceptance and appreciation. It doesn’t mean that we always agree- but it does mean that we respect a difference in opinion.

There may be long stretches of time when there is little or no contact – but that makes no difference. The connection is intact. When the opportunity to be together comes around it is as if we have never been apart. Conversation is instantaneous and non-stop on any and every topic under the sun. Jokes and a sense of humor, gripes and complaints or sharing happy stories are spontaneous.

I was on the phone this evening with two such friends. I talked to two others earlier in the day. Yesterday, I had some shopping time with another – just wandering through a store sharing an afternoon. Later in the week a lunch is scheduled with a friend. In two weeks, I will spend a weekend with an out-of-town friend. All of these connections make my days. They are shots of sunshine, inspiration and joy. I don’t know what I would do without these connections.

There is give and take in these relationships. We are all there for each other. In a moment of sheer terror or absolute desperation, I could call any of these folks and know that I would have support. If I should receive a call of need from them, it would be returned.

From conversations with readers of I.M. Heart, I know that there are many, many people who need “FRIENDS”. They just need someone to be there, to have dinner or a movie, to wander through a store with, or take a walk. For people who live alone, even someone to call with a “good morning” or a “sleep tight” is a really big deal. All this fulfills a need for someone to care, to be there – especially if we have an absence of close family. We all need friendship, love and companionship. If you know of someone who is alone or may be in need of a friend, please open your heart and extend you hand in friendship. It may be an opportunity to give hope and strength that can change a life.

To all my friends, know that I love you and very much value your friendship!