Celebrating Friendship

 

Katz’s Deli in New York is as timeless as an old friend.  So it is appropriate we meet there for lunch.  Back in the day we could put down a sandwich each, but now we opt to split one out of respect for our heart and waistlines.  Katz’s is a staple on the lower east side of Manhattan.  Friends have been meeting here for generations and it is as much fun to order the food as it is to eat.  The process is simple, take a yellow ticket, order food, eat and pay on the way out.  While at the counter negotiate the meat cutting with the server while he proclaims “this is the best Pastrami in the world” in his gruff, bold and brash New York accent.  A visit here is more than having a meal.  It is the entire experience.  Standing in line, negotiating the amount of meat in your sandwich but settling for extra pickles.  You then sit down at a long and shared table with perfect strangers you feel like you have known for your entire life.  

It’s all about the meal, the experience and the friendship.  I reunite with a friend I have not seen in years, but simultaneously feel like no time has passed.  Life gives us people in our lives.  We need others.  Friends are like the glue that holds society together.  Without them we would be like scraps of paper wanting to form a paper mache sculpture.  Aimlessly floating around without purpose.  Separately we function, but together we have meaning and beauty.  Friends come in all shapes, sizes, different personalities, sexes, and colors.  Some of our friends have two legs while others have four.  We bring them into our lives by choice.  Sometimes cautiously, other times carelessly.  We trust them, share stories, feelings and emotions.  We laugh, cry, do fun things together and realize that we need that other person and they need us.  We love our friends and show them through acts of kindness, thoughtfulness, forgiveness and patience.  Some we love more than others.  Some we choose to put aside. 

Friends come in categories.  I have a group of friends.  I have several good friends.  And, I have a best friend.  My best friend is the two legged person I feel most bonded with.  The one I know I can turn to when I am feeling down or want to share my happiness.  The one that understands and accepts me for who I am and is non-judgemental. My best friend is not afraid to tell me how she feels, to call me out when I misspeak, tell me I am overthinking something, or that I am just feeling sorry for myself.  Although we believe in telling each other truthfully and lovingly as it is, we are also caring and compassionate with our feelings.  Because when you are feeling low you need somebody to help lift you up not tear you down.

Best friends give and receive love unconditionally.  They care deeply for their friend.  Acts of kindness are given with nothing expected in return.  You give your time, things and ear because your relationship is more important than anything you have.  You tell your friend that they are important to you.  Not always through words because it’s easy to mouth the expression “I love you.”  Demonstrate your love towards  your friend through action. Solidify your commitment to them by graciously devoting time and effort while never expecting anything in return.  This is the stuff of unconditional love.  

Take a moment to embrace your friendships and reach out to one.  Maybe it is a call, a card, a handwritten note, text, or friendly jesture.  Let your friend know you are thinking of them and that you cherish their friendship.  Pray for them.  

Nothing you do with a friend needs to be elaborate.  Sometimes the smallest act is the most important.