Long Distance Friends feel like "Home"...

My family and I have had a tough 18 months.

The fiber of our home has changed.

It has been changing for many years, but this past year it has culminated into something different.

There have been times this past year and one half where I wasn't sure we would make it.

But, we did.  And, we are.

And, we did so because of Godly parents who loved us, neighbors who were kind.

But, what has touched my heart the most are those faithful friends who reached out from long distance and hugged us with their loving words and whispered prayers.

What is it about being so far away in distance that makes it possible to be so close together at heart?

Tammy, Renee', Dorthi, Suzanne, Ella, Lee, Billie....

Why is it that what you cannot share with people who live in the same town, you can pour out to your long distance friends?

I have thought about this a lot...and, I think I have concluded:

* Long distance friends do not mince words...they get right to the point and they delve deeply into things    important for their time with you is brief
* Long distance friends are bold to seek truth and quickly for the same reason above
* Long distance friends listen harder and ask the hard questions, possibly because they know they will be leaving soon or when over the phone/internet..are not at risk of harm:)
* Long distance friends may be far away in miles, but feel like they are next door in heart.

I love my friends who live away...and, with the exception of a few treasured local friends, Melissa, Laura, Sharon, Lisa...it has been those who are not here who have reached out to me and my family the most this past year.

This is not a critique of my local friends....I am blessed by many who have held my hand for a long while.  They need the break....

I just find it precious that those who are not in my presence have taken time from their lives to stop and make contact with me in real ways....frequently...and most often when I have needed it the most...

My challenge to you...and me....

Can we take time out of our lives to be that friend who reaches out and "hugs" from a distance?

I know we can....so, let's do.

Blessings,

Lesa