Once upon a time there was a girl named Kam. Her sophomore year in college found her entering MTH 141 and scanning the room for a seat. As she did, she made eye contact with her future BFF. (In case you’re not well versed in 6th grader chic-lingo, that stands for Best Friends Forever.)

Connie and I clicked from day one and have been BFF’s ever since. We both have many other friends in our crayon box of life. Colorful friends of all shapes and sizes and ages. Some of them are mutual friends, some are not. But through the trials and triumphs in both of our lives, we still have a tie that binds, and feels like family. We are sista’s in the grandest sense.

In his beautiful book, Soul Mates, Thomas Moore contemplates the nature of friendship:
“Friendship . . . is an attraction and magnetism of souls. Friendships often begin in a soulful way through the workings of fate. It is as though souls recognize the hidden treasure in each other and forge the alliance . . .”

I write this today as it is her birthday and one of the greatest gifts she’s given me, is more confidence in using my own unique voice and permission to play with words. In my heart I have always felt I was a “writer”. But wearing that title didn’t seem appropriate as I hadn’t made a living at it. Through her constant love, support and nurturing friendship, I have gained confidence and clarity and redefined what being a writer means to me.

I am truly blessed with so many colorful and amazing people I am fortunate to call friends. But tonight I am picking this one out of the box of 64 and painting the town red! Take a moment to let your friends know how much you love and care about them. They help paint the picture of who you are and create the canvas of your life. Celebrate them. Play with them. Laugh with them. Cry with them. I am!!

“A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who finds one finds a treasure.”
- Sirach 6:14

How will you celebrate your friendships today?

Peace and hey sista soul sista,
kam