The Power of Friends

I believe that everything happens for a reason.  Lessons are learned in hopes that they prepare you for what is right around the corner. I believe that people leave footprints on your heart, forever leaving an impact on who you are and how you turned out.  I have had many souls pass through my life, good and bad.  I've had rotten people who have taken my whole being and transformed me.  I have had angels lift me from my knees and carry me when I didn't have the strength to walk.   And through all of my lessons I have made friends.

I have an ability to connect with others; I've always understood them.  I was taught to empathize for people's pasts and to believe in their potential.  "Everybody has a story".  My beautiful mother has always spoken these words to me, and I remember them.  It's hard to judge someone once you realize where they come from.  Some people are just roses that bloomed from concrete.  And I believe this simple understanding is why I am blessed with wonderful people.

I'm not sure if everyone understands that what you do changes people.  How you treat others changes them.  Smiling at someone, even if you've had a rotten day, changes theirs. Each day that passes, we make changes.  People have changed me.

I'm so thankful for every single person that I have had the ability to connect with.  Everywhere I go I find a friend.  Ask Megan and Daulton, they are forever rolling theirs eyes, firmly planting their weight in one hip, tapping their toes, and begging me to STOP TALKING.  But the truth is, despite my obnoxius best friends, I believe that I've changed people.  I can only hope that it has been for the better.  But I care.  I care what others say to me.  I care that sometimes you just need somebody to talk to, and I love that I can provide that.  And in changing others, I've changed myself.  It truly makes me a better person.  I was just talking to a friend tonight and they said to me "Complimenting others and making them feel good about themselves in return makes me feel better about myself." If I have ever 'helped' you, I want you to know that in return, you have helped me.  I needed you that same day that you needed me.  I need friends.  I need people to connect with.  I need to feel needed.

I have many friends.  They came in all shapes and sizes.  The lessons I've learned have only brought me to where I am.

I love people. I love talking. I love my friends.