The Garden of Friendships
January 24, 2009 by Marci
Today, I was reading the book that the mom’s group at our church is studying, The Power of a Postive Mom by Karol Ladd. We have been studying one unit each month. This month’s unit is on “the power of strong relationships”. The current chapter is about friendships and how important they are to everyone, especially women. We all have acquaintances we see everyday at school, at church, in the neighborhood. But, we only have a few real friends. Real friends are those we can share our innermost feelings. The ones who know us best and love us anyway. The ones that can tell us that we really shouldn’t be wearing low cut jeans and we won’t be offended. Women need these close friendships.
The author likens these relationships to a garden of beautiful flowers. They all need love and care in order to grow, but if neglected, they can wither away. Relationships need to be tended to just like a garden if you want to keep them. Do you have any relationships that need some attention? It is so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day routines and stuff that we forget to reach out to those closest to us. We may not be pushing people away. Its more like drifting…
We need close frienships. We can’t be an island and expect to make it. Everyone needs someone they can count on. Take time right now to make a quick phone call, schedule a lunch, invite a friend over for a cup of coffee. Make time in your schedule to take care of these relationships before they wither away.
Comments (2)
So…you totally picqued my interest! I had to order the book. Got it today and reading a few chapters during “quiet time.” I’m already excited. I like that the Big Guy is our “employer” and just the emphasis that being a mother is the most signifcant, important work. Of course, we know that, but it is affirming to hear it from other “sources,” too!
As far as friendships go…I couldn’t agree more! I feel so fortunate to have good friends. Women need other women! And, esp. mamas! I got the chance to catch up with my best friend last night. I love the analogy to beautiful flowers. My friends definitely add color and life into my life!
WOW! You have no idea how much I needed to read this tonight. I feel like I am so busy with my job as a “family manager” that it’s tough to fit in those friendships. And not only do to schedules but at the end of day, sometimes I just don’t feel like I have anymore to give. I will have to put this book on my list. Thanks for the reminder about this important issue in our lives Marci.