Back in September I was invited to share a friend's fortieth birthday on a sailboat with seven other women. The experience of friendship on that boat left me filled with such gratitude. We laughed together, prayed together, sang together, and shared stories, leaving me feeling deeply connected. When we allow it, friends bring out the best in us. Friends provide an ear for listening and a shoulder for comfort when we need emotional nourishment. I wrote a poem on that boat I would like to share with you, my friends.

Oh friend: who raises me like the bright light of the sun

Oh friend: who awakens me like the buzz of rich coffee

Oh friend: who nourishes me like a bowl of mom's homemade chicken soup

Oh friend: who relaxes me like a beloved's gentle touch

Oh friend: who reflects all of myself in herself like the moon over the ocean.

Come the rising of the sun, come the rising of the moon my days are complete with our friendship.