The Joys of Friendship - Part Two

An old saying tells us that "New friends are silver but old friends are gold." If you read yesterday's post, you know how much I value old friends. New friends to me are equally valuable. In fact, I'd put any and all good friends in the platinum category.

Last week my husband and I stayed in this lovely lake front home in Maine - a generous gift from Elaine, a new friend. She called it "house sitting" but I know she only said that so we would be comfortable taking her up on such a generous offer.

I met Elaine through my brother a couple of years ago. They were in the area and stopped by my home for lunch. Soon, the guys were forgotten as we began to talk...and talk... and talk. We are about the same age and share many common interests. We started an email friendship. I love getting her emails. She has a real gift for narrative and a great sense of humor. Our friendship expanded this winter when she was dealing with a serious medical challenge with her young granddaughter who had been attacked by a poisonous jelly fish and I was facing life changes due to my husband's illness.

We don't see each other often, but I know that she will be there if I need her...and I will be there for her, too. Isn't that what friendship's all about?

So, no matter your age or the busyness of your life, be on the look out for a new friend. Like love and joy, one can never have too many good friends.