Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Reconnecting with old friends

Friends can be a very important part of a person's life. I've never been one to have a gang of friends, but the ones I do have are of extremely high quality, and I really appreciate them.

There are friends that you see on a regular basis and talk on the phone with constantly. Some friends you see on an occasional basis. There are friends you talk to once a month just to catch up and some you hardly ever see, but keep in your heart.

My husband and I lost contact with a very special friend and it hurt us a lot. He had some issues with drugs and was going through some things. We knew what city he lived in, but had no address or phone number. We really missed him and worried a lot about him as well. It's been more than ten years since we saw him last.

Well, Monday our dear friend and his girlfriend came to visit. I knew he would be at my house and I was so excited. All I could think of while I was at work was seeing my long lost brother. I paused at the door when I got home because I realized that I wasn't sure what to expect. Years of drug use and hard living can take a toll on a person.

I took a deep breath and unlocked the door. He came over to give me a hug and I cried. He looked so good! I don't think i've ever been happier to see someone. He looked so healthy and strong. I was so relieved. I feel like crying right now.

As soon as I sat down, the jokes started, or should I say continued. My husband is one of the funniest people I know and they were already laughing. We started talking about old times and reminiscing. I kept looking at our friend because I couldn't believe he was really there and I was happy he looked so great and had his life on track.

Our friend has gone through some things, but he's been clean and sober for three years. He doesn't drink, or even smoke cigarettes. We even went to a bar! He drank soda all night. I'm so proud of him. He has a good job, a good woman, and a good life. It shows on his face.

There's nothing like reconnecting with someone special that you haven't seen in a while. Our friend and his girlfriend left this morning and I really miss them. I haven't laughed as much as I did with them in a long time.

Appreciate your friends!