This was an inspiring message that came my way today. We’re anticipating a large move in our family. It’s been years in the making. We know that we’d like to try something new. Can you guess that I’m a little surprised by the sluggish feelings I have while packing? Probably not.
It surprised me. We have lived in the same house now for 13 years. That is a lot of time to collect things. It is a lot of time to collect dust too.
I’m thankful for encouraging friends and family. It is essential to have a core group of support. In fact, the Mayo Clinic website has a wonderful article about why friendships enrich our lives.
Here are a few reasons!
FRIENDSHIPS
- Increase your sense of belonging and purpose
- Boost your happiness and reduce your stress
- Improve your self-confidence and self-worth
- Help you cope with traumas, such as divorce, serious illness, job loss or the death of a loved one
- Encourage you to change or avoid unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as excessive drinking or lack of exercise
Sounds simple enough?! Yet, it isn’t. Friendships take significant time and investment. Many times those whom we love and want to spend time with take the back seat to our children, aging parents, and our work. Cherishing the people we care for means that we will figure it out! I’ve appreciated the gift of my friend, Dawn, who calls me when she sits in rush hour. Another dear moment is when I can facebook message my elementary school friend, Tara, that I’m headed down the sidewalk for a glass of wine at her house. I am VERY grateful that she doesn’t care about cleaning and that I have these precious moments.
While I’m packing and dusting for our family’s transition to another home I’m able to relax for a few minutes knowing that my friends are there. I’m able to rest in my spiritual belief that God isn’t going to leave me despite how sluggish I feel. If you haven’t taken the time recently, today I’ll encourage you! Why don’t you pick a friend and give them a drive by hug!
arts + more 