I’ve heard that people who grow up in the military learn to make friends quickly, knowing that either they or their new acquaintance might soon be relocated. I, however, have no military background and seem to be quite slow at becoming close to someone. There seems to be some sort of unspoken rite of passage that takes several months or longer that must be completed before I deem someone a close friend. But all of that changed before I went to language school in Costa Rica.
I knew I’d only be there for one year, so I couldn’t put a new relationship through the standard protocol. I didn’t want to waste any time once I got to Costa Rica pursuing a close friendship since I knew my days were already numbered. Instead, I prayed fervently for months before even setting foot on “Tican” soil for a good friend.
I could hardly contain myself once language school started. With every female I met, I’d quietly pray, “is that her?” I knew my soon-to-be-close friend was close. I felt like a kid on Christmas Eve, waiting with great anticipation for what lay in the near future.
Now don’t get me wrong. I don’t believe God is a genie who is obligated to provide me with a close friend at the moment I ask for one. Actually, I don’t think God is required to answer any of my prayers. It’s just that my Abba Father likes to. Just like He does for you. And so I waited.
And then I met her. It took a few weeks to know for sure, but I quickly realized that God provided an answer to my request.
I told my mentor about my new friendship and the ways in which I had prayed for her and the great expectation I had in meeting her. She smiled, then gently asked if I’d told Christina how grateful I was for her. I realized I hadn’t.
My heart can be good at expressing thanksgiving, but my mouth often forgets to do the same.
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you.” Philippians 1:3 (KJV)
My goal this month is to thank some of the many people who have played such an important role in my life. I want to encourage you to do the same. Feel free to use the comments section to share your thanksgiving, and please check that section throughout the month. You just might find yourself mentioned there.
November 2nd, 2008 at 10:33 am
I want to start by telling you, Christina, how grateful I am for you. You truly were an answer to prayer! I so cherish the time we shared in Costa Rica. I have nothing but sweet memories. My time in Costa Rica stored up hope and joy in me, preparing me for the storm that I didn’t even know was coming. Thank you.
Sheila, thank you for the many, many words of wisdom you speak to me, both during my time in CR and now via e-mail and the phone. You challenge and inspire me and you, too, helped prepare me for the storm and held my hand from a thousand miles away as I walked through it. Thank you.
Lenae, it takes an absolutely incredible woman to see someone in deep misery and reach out so selflessly. I wouldn’t have made it through without you. I so miss being in the same state as you and am grateful that, despite the miles, you are still such an amazing friend.
Kerri, you never fail to give me a different perspective and you’ve helped me be bolder. Also, thanks for running interference for me—it’s taken such a load off my shoulders!
Kathy, you are an incredible encouragement to me! Thanks for believing so much in my book and for always looking out for me!
Marsha, your spirit, countenance and faith truly inspire me. Hold fast, friend, hold fast.
Nina, you are a true friend and I so appreciate you! Thanks for being transparent with me and for letting me do the same with you.
My Bad Girls, what can I say? I’m truly grateful. You each bless me in different ways.
Allen, I have no clue how you’ve tolerated me, but I sure am glad you stuck around! Your tenderness helped me see the blue in the sky again and the love in my heart. Thank you. I love you.
Connie, you crack me up! It’s been many years and many miles and I’m blessed to still be your friend.
Krista and Michele, it is an honor to be able to write with you and, more importantly, to call you friends.
Kim, you’re more than just a sister. Your heart and compassion are so evident!
Shana, you are such a blessing to me!
~Stacy