I have always been blessed to have inspiring women and friends in my life. It seems like there are far more inspiring women and friends than the occasional festering troll that sneaks into your life attempting to sponge all of the joy and fun right out of you :) I think the hardest part of my move to the UK was leaving these wonderful women behind. The other day my doorbell rang and 2 large and heavy packages were delivered to my door.
Historically.......I HATE surprises. Surprises are usually trumpets sounding out that you have lost your job, or your grandpa has died, or that you are moving your Junior Year in High School. I like good old steady and predictable routine in my life. I run the same path pretty much every day, I have the same routines, same idiosyncrasies, and same old expectations of others......no room for surprises in my life. However, this surprise was epic.
I eagerly opened up the packages knowing well enough that I hadn't ordered anything, only to find two carefully thought out packages sent to me by six inspiring fun friends. The package included a list of my favourite things....that just so happened to also be in the box. I was gobsmacked! The packages cost nearly $100.00 to send not even mentioning the contents. I am so not worth it, but I was overwhelmed by the kindness and love that was packed into these boxes. The cards were sweet and lovely and I feel truly blessed to rub shoulders with these women. I have heard before that you "reap what you sew" and "you get what you give," and I hope that I have been as good of a friend as friendship I have received.
I have learnt a lot about friendship the past couple of years as I have tried to make new friends and reach out to people in friendship. I have found that friendship really is a 2 way street. You cannot always be the one reaching out to the other, it has to be reciprocated and mutual. Kindness is extended to all, but real friendship I believe is something that has involved a mutual and reciprocated investment.... not mere entitlement.
I snarfed away at all of my favourite things they don't sell here in the UK. I am honoured, flattered, and still overwhelmed by the time, work, and expense that went into this glorious surprise. I will NEVER forget this Birthday, it was the best gift I have ever had. Thanks friends for knocking my socks off.
