The support of good friends

Many years ago (boy, that makes me sound way too old), my father taught me a lesson that I will never forget. I don't remember the circumstances that gave rise to the occasion, nor do I even remember the exact words that he used, but he taught me the importance of having friends, particularly good friends. At the time, I didn't appreciate the lesson that he was trying to teach me. Over the years, however, I think I've come to that understanding.

The last few years in particular have brought me many experiences that have helped to teach me the importance of good friends. Some of those experiences have involved a lot of laughter, fun and great times together. Other experiences have involved sorrow and pain, such as the very recent passing of the son and grandson of some very dear friends. Despite the changing circumstances, however, the one constant that seems to stand above the rest is the love and support of good friends.

I am sometimes left emotionally overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and concern toward those who are grieving. If it is overwhelming to me, I know that it must provide some measure of strength and comfort for those whose grief seems almost insurmountable.

I am likewise amazed at the capacity of those who find themselves in terrible circumstances to pick themselves up and continue forward. Of course, the ability to do that is often the result of having good friends and family nearby, and it is always the result of having a solid spiritual foundation and knowledge of our Heavenly Father's plan for his children. That knowledge, that foundation and those friends, while they may not diminish our grief, certainly increase our capacity to bear the trials that are placed before us.

I have been so incredibly blessed to be surrounded by so many people that are good, solid folks. And I've been overwhelmingly blessed with incredible family and friends.