Friends

we need them so bad!

It almost seems like a betrayal when I write about life’s pleasures, or the end of a horse’s life, or running. I know that our world is in crisis. I know people are getting killed, and I know we are living through an age that we cannot understand. But I also believe that every calm and loving voice makes a difference, and helps bring more joy into this world.

I've been going through some transformations recently; inside transformations that have little to do with the tumult I see outside. I've been feeling a little like I did when I was 13 or so (and back then I remember watching the first televised war) ... wondering how to navigate the next chapter in my life, super annoyed with everyone and everything, but moved to tears by small beautiful things. 

I've tried to treat myself like one does a newborn, moving slowly and taking care. I've had some huge moral joltings in my life over the past year, and I've been taking stock and realizing that our small moments with friends are one of life's most important pleasures. There is something immensely comforting in the fact that I've kept in touch with one friend for almost 60 years, and two others for over 50 years, and I know that I can call or write and we will be back to being ten, fifteen, or fifty. And I love the fact that even as I age, I'm still making new friends.

One thing life has taught me was that I am much more of an introvert than I thought. I'm happy to muddle through on my own, and I don't hanker after being sociable. I love to run long distances solo, to think my thoughts. I love chatting with myself about all the questions and worries I have in my mind.

But of course, I myself am not the best person to turn to when I want someone else to talk to, someone else's experience and wisdom to learn from, someone else to have fun with and compare notes on this weird journey we call life.

So here's an idea: if you read this (and I know there are a few of you who will), take a minute to call or send a message to a friend. It will make them happy!