Friendship Wealth

Friendship Wealth

As I reflect on my recent health challenges, I realize how truly wealthy I am. Some say a one's true wealth can be measured by how many friends he/she has. By this measure, I realize I am blessed.

I experienced a hospitalization of 5 days about 2 weeks ago. I had been feeling poorly for about a week before I was correctly diagnosed with multiple pulmonary embolli and thus the hospitalization. It was through this experience I realized how vital and important my friends are to me.

The day I was hospitalized my office mates rallied around me in worry and in tangible help. I needed to get some keys to my electronic lockbox in order to facilitate an important showing. First, Terri offered to help and I was too proud to accept. However, when I realized I was not capable of actually performing this task, Paul readily offered to help me. Jill, Jillian and Jess made phone calls and offered words of encouragement.

During my hospitalization I was visited by many friends including Glenn, Shannon, Denny, Bonnie, the entire Hurst family, Dan, Jay, Ruth, Jim, Nina, Dean, Craig and my pastors, Ron and Sue. These visits were appreciated and such a blessing that words cannot adequately express the meaning. I was encouraged and uplifted by this simple gesture. Thank-you.

I must mention how meaningful it was to have Dean when he was visiting me ask if I wanted anything from McDonald's. I asked for a cheese burger and a chocolate shake. Dean went across the street and bought me these items. I savored them and realized again how wealthy I was to have a friend like this.

I also received many cards, phone calls and words of encouragement. The flowering plant pictured above was a gift from the Gemeinschaft Sunday School class. Besides its beauty, it communicated love and friendship. I am grateful.

Take a moment this day and count your friends. Remember the blessing these friendship are for you and give thanks.