On Sharing

Dear Meg,

I was thinking today about sharing. The kind of sharing that you do when you have a real friend.

Last night when you called and announced that Sean passed his test, I couldn't contain my squeal of joy, (it even scared the kids). I felt happy just knowing that you have what you have wanted for so long.

Later that night, I thought about the morning you texted to tell me that Rachel passed away. I sat on my porch in the warm summer light and sobbed. I didn't think about how terrible that day was for you. I felt it.

There is something so drowning about my own emotions. I feel swept away with my own joy. I am suffocated by my own suffering. But there is a unique quality to the emotions I share with you. They enrich my spirit, they make me grow, they make me better.

I'm so glad for your happy news, and I ache for your still recent and raw loss. But I also thank you for letting me share in those emotions, and so many more. Being your friend has made my life more full. So here's to sharing!

Love,
Mal

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