You’ve never asked for what is not in my power to give. 

You’ve never hinted at wanting less than my wholeness.

You’ve watched me struggle and stood by with strength at the ready should I need it – but you’ve never wrested the challenge from my grip.

You’ve laughed at my foolishness, but never at my grief.

You’ve listened intently when I’ve spoken my tail in circles until I finally get to the point – and you nod then, as if you knew I would get there all along – even if I didn’t know what I was trying to say at first.

You know how I take my coffee. 

You know the freckles on my face as though they belonged to you. 

You repeat my holier-than-thou words back to me at the most inopportune times – exposing me for the judgmental fraud I am so I can work harder to be better.

You’re honest, kind, forgiving and loaded with compassion – so much so that sometimes I’m wracked with guilt for not being a more giving companion.

You’re nurturing, encouraging, empowering and inspiring.

You are my first and last muses.

You are the one I call when my sides ache from crying or my childhood fear of the dark re-emerges.

You are the greatest companions of the journey, the scenery along the way and the destinations I can’t wait to experience.

You are the harmony in my chorus and I am so profoundly grateful for the song you’ve made of my life.

When I am filled with joy, your face comes to mind.

When nature awes me with some vista – I think of you.

When I am witness to something powerful and raw – I wish you were there to share it.

For you, I can be stronger.  I can push harder and carry more.  For you, I can smile when my heart is breaking and bear my pain with more grace. For you, I can show my true self, lay open my vulnerability.

Because you are my friend.  Because I love you.  Because, were it not for you, there would be no gold in my sunrise, no stars in my sky.  Thank you.

Thank you for being so beautiful.  Thank you for being you.  Thank you for being a part of my life.

I will endeavor to be such a friend to you – as you have been to me.

My book is going to have a cover!!! Ever since my editor emailed to tell me that she was on her way to the Marketing dept. to start discussing the cover – I’ve been a basket case of twitteriness. It’s starting to feel real!