We've spent nearly every Monday night together for years. There have been countless "porch times" where we've shared "the juice." We've put each other to the mat and revealed dark secrets. We've laughed. We've cried. We've prayed, sometimes not even knowing what to say. We've sent each other to God's Word, counseled when asked and consoled when necessary. We've lunched, sent the guys on ice cream runs and had plenty of cappuccino and chai (Christmas in your mouth). We've boogied the night away, talked until very late and thoroughly enjoyed each other. We have truly loved.
It has been my incredible privilege to watch them. I've seen their beauty. I've delighted in their candor and spunk and need for authenticity. I've seen them discover God can get them through trials even when it isn't easy or rather, especially when it isn't easy. I've seen them push through the tough stuff and persevere. I've prayed for them, worried about them, hugged them and wanted to slap them at times. I've seen them blossom and grow and "bloop" (my way of saying they've finally let their true selves pop out).
They've taught me love means saying some hard things sometimes. I've learned being hip isn't important, but being available and consistent are. They've loved me for who I am, not who I'm supposed to be. In their presence I feel so me, so valued.
And now life dictates they move on, each to discover God's plans for themselves, each finding their next step, each being better for having known one another. It is bittersweet. While I can't wait to see what they become, I am sad to see them go. We've had an awesome run.
I will miss you, my friends, but am so excited to see what God has in store for you. You are special, special women and my heart will always hold a special fondness for you. I love you, girls.
6 comments:
Someone pass the tissues! :) Tami, we go into the world better women because of each other, and because of you. Thank you for pouring yourself into us, for allowing us to invade your life and your house. :) Thank you for loving us and for being real with us. I know I'll never forget these last two years. Watching God work has been an indescribable experience. Love you!!
I always joke that I'm the "unemotional numb post" because sometimes I choose not to partake in actual conversations on Monday nights. I've figured out that I'm not numb, because all the while my head would be swimming with thought, feelings, EMOTION...
You girls, along with God, have helped me discover who I really am, and let me be comfortable with that. Yeah, I still struggle with issues, but who doesnt? I'm strong because of you ladies. Tami, you are wise. You are a rock. You say it how it is. You've blooped to us, too! We look up to you - not as a "mom figure" - but as an equal, as a friend.
I will never forget our Monday nights. I am saddened, too, when I think about it being done forever, but I have to agree that I can't wait to see where God leads me, where He leads US! I know that in five years from now, when we all are STILL having our quarterly lunch, laughing, praying, crying, we can look back and remember how it all started... one random Monday night, discussing a book, sitting on a beat-up blue couch.
I love you guys. You've been an inspiration and a blessing in my life. God bless you all! :)
Stephy
So sweet---I enjoyed reading about all of you ladies. Thank you, Tami, for your kind words at my blog recently. May God's blessings pour down on you and yours this week.
In His grace,
Vicki
So many lives you touched, and continue to touch. Thank you for your faithfullness in loving people.
Aww. *tear* I don't think I need to explain the incredible love that I feel for each of us girls. But, can I tell you a secret? You were always my favorite! I know you don't think so but you are absolutely fascinating. I've spent many hours reading and re-reading the e-mails I've gotten from you. Sucking all the wisdom I could from them. I've saved them all and reflected often on them. You have been a great great friend to me. I will remember the things you've taught me for a lifetime. Love you!
this group has always been a source os comfort to me and i miss you tami, and the group very much. its super hard to leave such a great comfort zone and i think about you guys every day, but i have learned so much from all of you and that helps. i am so thankful for having all of you in my life. thank you soo much and i love you all!
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