Is Happiness a Life Blessed with the Love of Friends?

Our friends can be a tremendous source of joy and love, as we can be to them.

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

Friends fill my life with joy — such a blessing.

Friendships are of the utmost importance at every stage of life. More so, as we enter the Third Third of our lives.

I have been blessed with many friends throughout my lifetime. Some of those relationships have ended — for various reasons. One of us moved away, divorces separated us, or we could not resolve disagreements. For the most part, my friendships have lasted many years.

Several years ago, I met a woman through a mutual friend. This new friend and I had a few things in common. She’s very artistic, and I aspired to be more creative. As it happened, we had the opportunity to help one another.

Irene seriously injured her knee, was bedridden for quite a few months, and could no longer paint. I encouraged her to pick up her paintbrush, even if just a few minutes a day — as that is where her joy was.

Eventually, she healed, and our friendship grew as we spent more time together, mostly sharing lunches I would bring to her, or she would prepare a simple meal at home.