Welcome to Day 23 of #TheLoveLetterProject Writing Challenge created by Marie of The Notion Of Love! If you’re just joining me, you can catch up on the rules here!

Day 23

To Your Friends

Seasons. If I’ve learned anything about friendship, it’s that seasons apply to connections as well. I’ve always been very anal and guarded about who I trust. From trying to protect my heart and mind contractually in platonic and familial relationships (true story) to doing everything I can to make sure no one feels left out on my watch.

Friendship. There are tiers and levels to this thing. And you know it’s funny because just a few days ago I gave a “just because” shoutout on my personal Facebook page; thanking my support network:

What’s funny is I deactivated my original Facebook account for 8 years; only to return almost a year ago at the request/major nudging of two organizations I’m affiliated with, one being GRINDHARDRADIO. It definitely came in handy because of the August 2017 launch of my Inspiration With E Radio Show and it’s also enhanced my accessibility to certain movements that inspire me. But I’m not in love with Facebook as it’s become a place I periodically blurt out random thoughts, link my writing and post occasional immediate family pics. Out of all of my followers I can literally count on one hand the number of people I’m referring to when I say “friends”.

I know a lot of people. And my acquaintance and extended family lists are ever growing, but I don’t throw the term “friend” around lightly at all. I don’t believe in luck but my mommy always said, if you have just one real friend, consider yourself lucky. She was right.

If I’ve learned nothing else:

Friendship is a major investment that requires time, transparency and thoughtfulness. I expect and want ALL of my relationships to THRIVE. This means I must take responsibility for the health, tone and tenor of every relationship and assume nothing. More than anything, I want to be an even better friend to the amazing sisters and brothers God has supernaturally imparted into my life. I love them deeply.

I can see the faces of those who have walked through some of my darkest moments and saddest of days with me; especially in the last few years. A few names I can’t even call publicly but I thank God for them every day. They loved me UNCONDITIONALLY and challenged me. They were honest with me and protected me. They spoke life over me and deemed me worthy. Reminded me who I was and Whose I was. They came through for me and came to know me very well. They deserve the world and though they care about me – just as I am, I look forward to improving, growing, maturing in my love and even blessing them (and their pockets) one day soon.

Thank you so much. Words cannot describe my appreciation. Love you to life. Thank you forever strong.💫e

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