The term 'friend' can be a vague term. Friends can be
found on many different levels. Some are acquaintance friends. Some are good
friends. And there are those rare ones that we call best friends or close
friends.
Growing up I lived in many places and met a variety
of individuals. A close friend was and is indeed a rare label for someone in
my life. You see, in moving around a lot, it allowed me the opportunity to
become a people watcher without getting close. It allowed me see people for
who they are, by forcing me to look deeper into the person. I met people who
were born into money, and those who weren't. I met fighters, as well as what I
call cruisers through life. I learned at a young age that those who fought were
stronger than those who cruised. It was those fights that made them strong.
Through the years I've seen the same pattern and observed how people gain
their strength. I have also faced many trials of my own. As a matter of fact, those who
are aware of them can't figure out how I'm still sane! J
I can
answer that with a verse:
Isaiah 43:2 says, "When you pass through the
waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not
sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the
flames will not set you ablaze."
My strength lies in God. With Him, I can
face anything the world even attempts to dish out! He's been through it all
with me. Life is not easy. It's the struggles and how you face them that make
you who you are. Surround yourself with strong people to help carry you when
you can't walk - those core friends are the close friends. Soak in His grace,
mercy, and love whenever you can. He will guide your steps when you can't see
the path. Trust Him and choose wisely who you call a 'close friend.'
