Monday, January 17, 2011

As I sat on the pier watching Carson and her best friend Abbey laughing and having fun in the canoe, I had no idea that I was learning a valuable lesson in friendship. In fact, it wasn't until days later, while viewing the pictures that I took of the two friends, that I realized I had witnessed some of the best traits of a true friendship.



One of the first being that real friends truly enjoy each other's company.



Another trait of a true friendship is that when one friend gets tired, the other one will take over and row for a while.



Still, another is that a true friend doesn't mind trading places once in a while just to see things from the other's point-of-view.



Lastly, and probably the most important trait of a true friendship is that once in a while, when one friend is going through a tough time, the only thing the other can do is sit quietly in the boat and just be.

I posted this originally back in August, however, today I felt the need to post this again. Sweet Abbey (Carson's friend in the boat) lost her mother yesterday to a long, hard battle with cancer. Her mom, Jennifer, was one of the strongest ladies that I have ever known. My heart is breaking today for her family...especially her two girls (who are the same ages as mine). Please send up a little prayer for this family, and for Carson whose heart is breaking for her friend. I know that Jennifer's life has already touched many people. I am praying that God will continue to comfort this family and all of those who knew and loved Jennifer.

"A friend loves at all times, and brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17

15 comments:

Tammy@Simple Southern Happiness said...

My heart breaks when reading someone has lost a family member or friend but to know a young daughter has lost her mother is more than I can contain my tears.

There are really no words one can say when this happens as the hurt is so great. So we hold them in our hearts and arms from a distance and lift them up before the lord. Praying for the family and friends this, day and the days to come that the lord will lift their spirits.

God be with these families and the days to come.

Paula@SweetPea said...

I think this may be one of the first posts that I read on your blog. I am so sorry to hear about Abbey's mom. It's terrible for any family to have to go through a loss like this.

Glenda said...

May The Comforter be so very near this family - and Carson, you and all those close to Jennifer.

penny said...

Prayer said, Carla.. my heart go out to them.. I am sorry for their loss.
Its not an easy life lesson for your daughter or her friend.
This brings back memories of my daughter's friend who lost her father when she was young.

Warm Hugs,
Pam

D said...

What a tug to my heart, Carla. I cannot imagine that which you feel. Great words about friendship which made me think of a "friend" of mine; one of the things I would like to add (to tell her) is that a true friend likes you just the way you are... not wanting to change you.

Blessings to your friends children. Coping will be difficult, but they will definitely make it through. We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers.

From the Kitchen said...

May God wrap his loving and healing arms around this family and hold them close through their grief and beyond.

Best,
Bonnie

Ginny said...

My heart goes out to Abbey in her loss - she and her family are in my prayers, as is Carson. It is so true that a genuine friend is one who will sit quietly and just be there when needed - no words necessary. In Patty Griffin's song "A Little Fire" she sings "all that I want is one who knows me, a kind hand on my face when I weep."

Allison said...

Oh, I'm so sorry. Of course I will think of her in prayer. This is a very heartfelt post, Carla, and meaningful. A big hug to Carson.

Richella Parham said...

Oh, Carla, I'm so sorry. What a tragic loss.

I'm glad you re-posted this, simply because it's a wonderful piece. I'm glad I got to read it. But of course we will pray for Abbey's family. I'm so glad that Abbey and her sister have you and your girls in their life! What a blessing I know you'll be to them. God bless you as you minister to them.

Michelle said...

Oh my, I am so sorry for these sweet young ladies and for all of you in the loss of someone special. Praying!

myletterstoemily said...

i am so sorry for your sweet daughter's friend's loss.
you will be such a comfort to her.

i'm glad you re-posted this, because i loved it the
first time!

i pray comfort and consolation to sweet abbey.

tina said...

So so very sorry for the loss of Abbey's mom Jennifer. Such a heartbreak for everyone, even for those of us who do not know her. It simply isn't fair. Best wishes for Abbey and I'm sure with the love of Carson she'll mend.

Anonymous said...

Oh, I am so sorry. More prayers are being said for Abbey and her family and friends. I am so glad that Abbey and Carson are friends.
Hugs,
Zuzu

Donna said...

Oh, Carla, I am so sorry. I'm sure Carson will be such a great support for her friend, Abbey. I will keep everyone in my prayers.... Donna

Skeeter said...

This was sad to read but we need to read such things at times to keep us grounded. I am so very sorry for the loss of your friend and prayers going up for a young lady to remain strong as her mother.....

I have the ingredients sitting on my kitchen countertop waiting for me to make the Potato Mushroom soup! Well, my version as I too do not measure anything.