Dance in the Rain

I lost a friend today. She was one of those rare friends who gave first, who loved unconditionally, who lifted you up, who believed in your best self. She suffered through years of pain and multiple surgeries and serious illnesses. Without fail, however, if you called she sincerely wanted to know how you were. She was cheerful, kind beyond belief, and completely humble. Her giving never expected a return; her love was generously bestowed upon all.

It is so rare to have someone in your life who accepts and loves you unconditionally, someone with whom masques and discretion about self-revelation are unnecessary.

How does a relationship like this happen? It evolves through shared pain and shared survival; shared joys and triumphs.

Long lasting friendships do not require daily contact. Our friendship spanned daily contact to a couple times a month. Throughout our friendship one or the other would call just when hearing the voice was needed. I am so thankful I listened to the inclination to call the day of her death. Little did we know it would be our last conversation, but we were able to express love and hope. There is an empty place in my heart today for the closeness we shared, but I am also greatly relieved that her suffering is over. She died as her family recited the Rosary in the early hours of Pentecost Sunday. Now she will continue to shower her “Happy Day Gift” on all of us.

Dear Friend, you never feared the storm, but taught us to dance in the rain.

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