Savoring friendships

**Sara Noel** · 10-05-2002, 12:17 AM

In the book there is a section on appreciating and cultivating the art of friendship.
I have to admit that I came to a point in my life where I severed many ties to quasi relationships. I reached a point where I felt many people were toxic to me and enough was enough. I was also fortunate that I moved out of state and was able to start over in this area.
It can sometimes be lonely. Although, some of these relationships were mere acquaintances, I sometimes miss the busy chatter, lunch dates and shopping plans, but I don't miss the lack of depth in those relationships.
I truly prefer to surround myself with people that lift me up vs. bringing me down.
I believe a part of this is placing value on people vs. objects. More often than not, I think we tend to forget the value of people in our lives. How often do we tell them we appreciate them? Today, is a good time to take a moment and just let someone know they are appreciated. Turn to a friend or your spouse and tell them you appreciated their help with something. Watch the power of simplicity unfold before you as you brighten someone else's moment.

Sara

**KathiS** · 10-05-2002, 03:37 AM

Sara, I feel that the importance of friends and family become clearer and clearer with age. It seems when I was younger my goals seemed to be focused on obtaining things. At this point in my life, things have little importance but, family and friends have become very important. I don't know if it is the wisdom of age or that I have found how little "things" really matter.

**Patchworkgirl** · 10-05-2002, 06:15 AM

I've never been one to have a lot of "friends" I am happier with one or 2 really close friends than lots of aquantainces. As a kid, I was always content to play by myself- didn't need a lot of friends around. My husband is the exact opposite- he loves to be around people- lots of people. He is in his element when he's surrounded by people!

**homesteadmamma** · 10-05-2002, 11:41 AM

Sara, I was exactly like you, I had many acquaintances and also friends and some of them drained my energy and so I broke some ties. It was very painful but after a few months, I begin to realize how important it is to surround yourself with friends who are positive and don't drain your energy.

I have a couple of very close friends in real life, and a few very close friends on the web and my life is full knowing these people are in my life. Were there for each other, to support, to care, to speak into each other's life positive thoughts, to pray with each other if the need arises.

For those friends, I'm savoring the times I get to spend with them, whether in real life or on line. They truly are treasures. And I so deeply appreciate that in this time of my life, they are there.