June 15, 2021
The other day I had lunch with a couple of dear friends, and by the end of our shared meal, it occurred to me how grateful I was for their friendship. Not that I wasn’t grateful before, but maybe that I took those moments or shared times for granted. My mind that day wasn’t troubled, and I was thinking clearly, and I recall smiling to myself most of the day. I am sharing this because while it may be a prevalent experience for some, it is not for many.
We had all decided to meet because our birthdays are within a few days apart, not only the month, but the year as well. We call it our Gemini birthday celebration. These women are intelligent, positive, beautiful kind souls. And while we don’t see each other that often, when we do get together, we pick up right where we left off. We decided to meet at a café called Bazille at International Plaza and Bay Street in Tampa. We met around lunchtime and we talked about the latest and greatest things going on in our lives, shared some of our sorrows or complaints, gave each other advice and we listened to one another. I just adore these women and actually feel encouraged and uplifted when I am around them.
As I was leaving, I thought to myself, “Lunch with the Ladies” it is an absolute must. I just knew I wanted to share my joy and gratitude that I felt for that time. Time… yes gratitude for time. I realize we are all at different stages in our lives and the idea of eating out may simply be impossible and I totally get it. Do I need a moment to clarify? No, good let’s move on. I would offer this for those that cannot get out due to children at home, work obligations, disabilities, or whatever your situation. Get creative, take time to plan a get together with your friends. Perhaps you could Invite friends over to your home, get that babysitter, make that phone call and plan it. It’s important to spend time, quality time with friends, not just social obligations, but really make it a point to be with those of like mind.
For me, I believe our feelings are a guide for us each and every day, it’s important to pay attention to ourselves and to those in our lives that may need a little support. Especially after a year of Covid restrictions etc. etc. So… plan that lunch with your girlfriends and while you are out, smile, laugh, find the beauty in your surroundings, enjoy one another’s company, speak positive words, put your phone down and encourage one another.
