| "A Bridge Spanning Incredible Distance" When confronted with awesome circumstances, who might you seek, for that sense of reassurance? While society seems to be spinning at a perfect rate, and your universe is swirling with confusion and unbearable adversity, where might you look to locate a means of stability? Then, just when you think you have reached your limit, and your course is so obscured with agonizing details, who functions as that accurate compass to take you to a place of serenity? As I write this, I am prompted to reflect on a few such situations in my life. I am forced to bring to mind, many encounters that have demanded careful consideration, and exceptional advice. During tempests like these, I can think of just one mortal individual who can rescue me, "My Friend." A friend to me symbolizes so much. The qualities they possess, far too significant to ever be dismissed. A true friend is far more valuable than rubies, diamonds or any fine gold. Friendship is an eternal bond that cannot be daunted by trivial details, misread conversation or meager discomforts. Friendship, entered into by two people, is a solemn union that endures the abuse that this life inflicts upon us. A friend to me is honest, trustworthy, caring and unselfish. A friend would go out of his/her way, give till it hurts and love unconditionally. I think this is the sort of person we each crave, to be a friend. I consider myself fortunate to have people with these characteristics in my life. I am humbled as I recollect the sacrifices that my friends have made for the likes of me. On countless occasions, I was less than appreciative of their efforts and advice. I am able to account for several instances where I ignored their insight and belittled their wisdom. To say that I behaved intelligently would be a lie. To relay that I was acting in my best interest would also be false. To admit that I was wrong and confess my stubbornness, might paint a more authentic picture of my disrespect. The uplifting aspect of it all, is that my friends looked right past my inability to discern right from wrong, picked me up and carried me through those deep trenches of pain and disorientation. Those dear people, I proudly call my friends. My journey thus far has acquainted me with a multitude of people. I have met people of different, nationalities, races, religions and languages. Lucky for me, I am a people person. I love to meet new people, hear about their cultures, share in their experiences. I also like to share my background, hoping to comfort or benefit those searching for friendship. My life over the past four years has compelled me to explore other avenues of meeting people. Many of them I have found right here, at my computer, via the Internet. I've been blessed to connect with so many wonderful individuals, many of whom I refer to as my friends. Through Multiple Sclerosis, I have formed bonds that I feel to be lasting. I've been able to share concerns and burdens with others who were more than accepting of me and eager to assist. I have learned that friendship is a universal fundamental. It is an ingredient that all humans, omitting race, culture or gender requires, to lead a fulfilling life. Do you know what blows my mind? Friendship doesn't have to exist merely among those around us. When we think about our friends, naturally we are provoked to envision the friends we know personally or communicate with, in the flesh. We allude to individuals that we visit with, on a regular basis. The exciting knowledge, which has grabbed me, is that friendships can be formed defying distance. I have come to appreciate, the gap of oceans and lands, which separate people can be successfully bridged by friendship. I am so thankful for my friends abroad. To me, although we have never met, they too are a critical part of my everyday survival. My advice, little as it may be, don't ever take friends for granted. Take every opportunity to acknowledge them, crediting them for their essential role in your life. Take a moment today to call them, email them, write them or yes, visit them. We are placed on this earth to live, learn and love. How difficult would this be without friends? In those situations when turmoil clouds your judgement, trust a friend to guide you to safety. When the day seems so lonely and dark, call on a friend to illuminate the way. Don't ever shoulder difficulty alone, trust a friend to help carry the load. Always, always, always recognize that friendship is "A Bridge Spanning Incredible Distance." We must realize this in its literal context, but also acknowledging the distance that we create within ourselves. Whatever this gap may be, allow your friendships to infuse a bridge, to an overflowing well of tranquility. Written: August 2002 for MuSings |