Have you ever felt so loved and wanted that you couldn't help but cry? That's how all my dear friends here in North Carolina make me feel. For those of you who don't know, my hubby has been the Bishop (leader of our congregation called to serve for a time without pay) for the last 4 and a half years. The two of us really enjoy serving those in our area and with service comes this deep love for each other. Now we know we are going to leave them and it hurts terribly.
Yesterday my husband gave his last talk at our church here, and I can tell you there were lots of tears. It's been an honor to watch how much he cares for these people. They know how much we love them, and we know how much they love us. The sweet grannies, the peers, the little children that I get to sing with every week, the teens that I've taught for years...all of them own a piece of my heart.
Many people have given me hugs and told me how much they will miss us, but at the same time they are excited for our family and the new adventures ahead. This is true friendship. The kind of friendship that doesn't fade away as the miles between increase. That is truly a blessing.
Sad tears and happy tears. And something that will bring a smile and a tear to me every time I wear it.
Do you know what that is?
That right there made it really hard to get through church without crying. My best friend Laura (remember this and this?) made it for me.
Have you guess yet?
It's her version of Talia's necklace and it's AWESOME! I love the decorative wire wrapped around the stone. It's exactly what I had in my mind but didn't explain to my jeweler. I don't think the professionally made one will be as cool. Luckily, Laura is going to teach me how to make them so I can make more to give away.
Who's your best friend? Have you told them how much you appreciate them lately? If not, I challenge you to do it today.
Leaving my church family would be the most difficult.
ReplyDeleteThat was a really sweet gift.
And my best friend will always be my wife.
Awe. My best friend is my hubby too, but Laura is the first best girl friend I've had my entire life. That's sort of sad considering my age, but I never lived in one place long enough to reach this point.
DeleteFriends are so important and it sounds like you have many, Charity. You and your husband are very lucky. Even though they'll miss you, they let you go because it was what was best for you and your family. That's love.
ReplyDeleteJai
Yes it is! It's good to know the world is still full of wonderful people who make great friends.
DeleteAwwh. That's wonderful that you have made so many interpersonal connections. It's definitely a huge bonus of being part of organized religion, and it's something that I wish I could experience. I'm so happy that you are loved, Charity. Take care on your journey.
ReplyDeleteThanks Michael!
DeleteI'm so sorry you're going through that. I know how hard it is to leave amazing friends who feel like family!
ReplyDeleteIt's nice to know that with the internet I don't have to lose them. We just have to remember it's a great opportunity to make new friends too.
DeleteIt's wonderful that, in a way, you're getting to see the invaluable piece you've also played in other's lives as they have a piece of your heart. That is wonderful what Laura did for you. It's good to always remind those we care for how much they mean to us.
ReplyDeleteSo true. It gives a bit of validation that all my running around hasn't been for naught.
Deletebeautiful!! and so special!
ReplyDeletejewelry making takes a knack and she nailed it for you! awesome!
She really did. She REALLY did. ;)
DeleteThat's a great necklace.
ReplyDeleteEndings are sad. Beginnings are exciting. Too bad one goes with the other.
That was really nice. Good luck with your new endeavors.
ReplyDeleteThe necklace looks beautiful, Charity. I'm so happy that you have such a wonderful network, and I feel your pain around moving away from that. But I have no doubt that the people in your next community will recognize the wonderful people you & your family are and embrace you in the same way. :-)
ReplyDeleteThis is probably why I didn't make a best friend sooner. it hurts to much when they leave..... at least I can say this isn't the end only the beginning!
ReplyDelete