December

“Some people come into our lives and quickly go.  Some stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts.  And we are never, ever the same.”  --Unknown

I know that I’ve said this before—and prepare yourself, I probably will again—but I am so incredibly blessed to have the people that I have in my life. 

There is someone in particular that always manages to show up in my life when I need him the most.   We have been friends for over 10 years now; and I have no clue how he always manages it…but he always just shows up when I need him.  A few years ago, when I was dealing with a guy who repeatedly tore me down, this guy popped back up in my life and reminded me that I deserved better. 

The way people treat you is a very big deal.  And please hear me when I say, I had the VERY best example with my dad.  He truly did everything in his power to see my mom, my sister, and I happy.  And having such a wonderful example, one would think I wouldn’t fall victim as easily to be treated poorly or with such little respect. 

The friend that I speak of also did so much to set an example for how I should be treated.  He always built me up.  He always reminded me that I was different, but that it was an incredible thing.  I was special to him, and he made it clear.  He was a gentleman, but it was much more than just opening doors for me.  It didn’t matter that I, myself, can sometimes have a foul mouth…if we were in a group, talking, and someone was using foul language, he would remind them not to talk so filthy in front of a lady.  It was the little things, but over time, they have had the biggest impact on me.  He set the bar so high, sometimes I feel as if it will be unattainable for anyone to reach it.  Perhaps that is why my ring finger remains ring-less.

I am always amazed at how your life can change at the span of one conversation.  As I sit writing this, tears are filling my eyes.  In December, the very moment that I heard his voice on the other end of the phone, I thought “Here you are again…how did you know this was the very moment that I needed you?”

Life has taken us different directions, and we aren’t as close as we once were.  But when my life feels like constant turmoil, somehow he always manages to show up.  I have no clue how he does it, but for him, and his friendship, I am eternally grateful.