I will turn 40 this year. And so I have taken particular interest in posts, blogs, articles and songs that highlight what to expect when your expecting your youth is over. (Which it isn't but that is an entirely different blog). What has stood out is that with age, comes an appreciation for one's self. I am by no means narcissistic, in fact I am very critical of my self...but I am getting better at being okay with me. I can recognize my flaws. I appreciate the person I have become and will one day be. What I know is that I am the product of my past. A good portion of my past is the relationships I have had.
I am not talking boyfriends, I am talking girlfriends. Some from elementary school, junior high, high school, university, work, teams, and mother's of my kids friends. Some of these relationships have stood the test of time. Some were flashes in a pan. Some continue to evolve while others are eroding. I can mourn the loss of friends due to 'growing apart', or I can be thankful for the opportunity and time we once shared. So, this post is for all of you girls I have loved.
You have taught me that words hurt more than pulling hair. That laughing when you are supposed to be sleeping is a slumber party must. You have taught me that we go to the washroom in pairs and wear elastic bands on our wrists in case you need an emergency ponytail. You have taught me that best friends forever is only a moment in time but it is a fierce loyalty in that period. You have taught me to use clear nail polish to stop a pantyhose hole from getting bigger and to lean forward in a picture to avoid an unnecessary double chin. You have taught me that jealousy is ugly and will poison your spirit. You have taught me to back-comb my bangs (why did we do this?) and how to take my bra off without removing my shirt. You have taught me how to look confident when the world looks intimidating. You have taught me that dance parties and playing dress-up isn't just for teenagers. You have taught me how to drink peach/peppermint schnapps and how to order a Manhattan. You have held my hand through the sprinkler, at graduation, during a scary movie, and when my baby was in ICU. You have broken my heart and lifted my spirit.
To all my girls, I love all the lessons. To all my girls, I love you.
Stay happy and healthy
www.jomoma.ca
Well said, Jo-moma. You make me proud.
ReplyDeleteA couple of other things you learned from your girlfriends is that three in a group never works, and if you have a secret, don't tell anyone, not even your BFF.