………..is it we learn the most from our mistakes or when life turns on us like a viper? Those good days we enjoyed so much are soon forgotten. Being King of the Hill only lasts a few hours, then it is someone else’s hill.

As children we loved everyone and friendship didn’t seem like a big deal. The older we grew and the people who have passed in and out of our lives left some footprints. The good things we do are always noticed by someone. Unfortunately, the bad things we do are noticed by everyone.

To have a friend it requires us to be a friend. To show ourselves friendly. There are as many ways to do that as we have friends. I read once where our personality is different with each of our friends. Some bring out the silliness in us, the serious side of us, the knowledgeable, the kind, the invention and art of being a friend.

That’s why our parents always advised us to pick our friends well. If we spend a lot of time around a bad influence some of it will rub off. I like a Chinese proverb I read once where it is said, “You cannot give another a rose without some of the fragrance remaining on your hand.” As a gardener, I know this to be true. As a kindness it is the same. You cannot give another kindness without some of it staying with you. God blesses on each end…..it is His gift.

I don’t know that there is ever a need to ask the “why”…….but if we think about it there is always a reason. And sometimes when we are quiet enough, that little still, small voice will tell us………..

Essentially Esther