The Difference Friendship Makes

 This week has been a difficult one. I lost a friend of twenty years and life has just continued moving on as if nothing really happened. Anne was a friend of many. She was kind, thoughtful, bubbly, and full of faith even in the throes of her battle with cancer. It doesn't seem fair or right that the world didn't pause or even stop for those of us who loved her to catch our breath. One of the things this sad week has given me the desire to do is stop and reflect on the difference friends have made in my life, especially as a writer. 

In so many ways, my books would never have existed if it wasn't for my friends. They are my first readers and have given me feedback that strengthens plots and sentences. Some have been sounding boards I can discuss my ideas with and see if I have the makings of a real story or just the skeleton of a failure. 

My friend, Anne, was my biggest encourager. She believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. At least weekly, she would send me online articles or documentary clips of bizarre crimes she thought I could shape into a story. Many times during my writing journey I've considered quitting. I've written for years and have only one published work to show for it, so oftentimes it feels like I'm using up loads of time on a dream without the legs to become reality. But Anne never stopped believing that my stories mattered. She read all of my books, including the ones that have received rejection after rejection and told me how much she loved reading them. As much as I'll miss the story ideas and writing prompts she sent me, I will miss her unwavering joy and encouragement so much more. 

Looking back, I'm afraid I took her encouragement, her belief in me, for granted. I guess it's true that a person never really realizes the treasure they have until it's gone. I just thought Anne would always be there. That we could be iron sharpening iron for decades, but God had a different plan. And even though I'm grieving one of the deepest, most rewarding friendships I've had the privilege of experiencing, I'm thankful for hope. Thankful that she isn't hurting anymore, and that I will see her smiling face again.  

Friendship is such a gift from God. I'm not sure we fully comprehend just how impactful it is. If you're the friend of a writer, I want you to know how special you are and how much your encouragement and support means. Your friendship makes a difference!

What do you value most in a friendship? Let me know in the comments and you will have a chance to win an ebook copy of The Purple Nightgown.