My friend, lovingly referred to as G, is the kind of friend everyone should be lucky to have. For 21 years he has been there for all the big moments, and just as many small moments in my life. G was an usher in my wedding, and had I asked, I am sure he would have happily accepted the role of bridesmaid. He has been a constant, a steadfast supporter and many times, held me up when I literally couldn't hold myself up.
When I first met G and his wife I was a carefree twenty something. They have watched me grow, often times, helped me grow and have since embraced my husband and son in the same loving, open way they embraced me. They are family and the first people I call in a crisis, and to share in joyful news. They are the friends who say yes first, ask questions second. There is no one else I would rather have in my corner.
As I placed the package on the table my son and I read it together - his face lit up to realize that mail was finally for him. We opened it and two plastic baggies full of change, I mean FULL of change worked their way out. I think AB actually let out a gasp! We read the cards, proceeded to come up with a plan and charged forward. As AB made stack after stack of four quarters, I re-read the cards and my eyes filled with tears.
When I made the decision to train for the NYC marathon with Team EMC I had no doubt that friends would come along side and support me, both financially and emotionally. I have been fortunate to experience friendships on such deep levels and as the saying goes, my friend file is full. It is overflowing. I am blessed beyond measure.
The new blessing is to see how this abundance flows to my son - the ways in which my friends show up for him and rally around his ideas. The big picture is that G is helping me reach my fundraising goal, but the more important picture is that AB feels encouraged. His little idea of holding lemonade stands has meaning. He understands he is making a difference. Little by little we are working our way to my goal. He is learning the value of money, and that really good, worthwhile things can be done with it. More significantly though, he is learning that people show up, they give, they encourage, they stand beside you. They believe in you.