Sisters

The beautiful tea set from my bible study

It's my belief that I have an unusually blessed life. It hasn't been without pain or disappointment, embarrassment or struggle. I think what makes me unusually blessed are the relationships in my life, especially my friendships with other women. From childhood to now I have had a steady stream of girls and women entering the seasons of my life to walk beside me. I could easily name thirty, easily. Many I'm still in contact with, some it's been a long time since I've seen their faces. Each one in some way has encouraged, challenged, carried, loved, listened to, laughed with, prayed for, borne with and shaped me.

When I've felt awkward and alone, there was someone to lean on. When I was wrong or selfish, someone challenged me to rise above. When I needed a laugh I've often had a kindred spirit to share a giggle with. When an adventure had to be met I have had cheerleaders, coaches and partners. When I needed understanding, guidance or insight; I have been abundantly blessed by a voice of wisdom.

My mind turns back over the years and at each season there is at least one person, often several, that I owe a debt of gratitude to for their devotion. And this last season has been no exception. Actually maybe it has been an exception because at this moment I can think of more women, near and far, that I love and that love me at this time than at any other.

I received one of the most beautiful, tangible expressions of that love, that bond of sisterhood, tonight that I have ever gotten. It came from my bible study. It's a beautiful tea set, pictured about, they know how much I love tea! I have grown with my bible study over the last three years in powerful ways. It's a gift I will cherish for many years and it will remind me of the sisterhood women share in Christ. I am in awe that God has blessed me with such precious relationships and look forward to growing through the relationships he has planned for me in the future while cherishing the past!